Gregory S. Hickey

About

Gregory S. Hickey is a pioneering roboticist whose work has fundamentally shaped planetary exploration, specializing in the design of lightweight, survivable rovers for extreme extraterrestrial environments. His most influential contribution is the development of the "LEMUR" (Legged Excursion Mechanical Utility Rover), a highly innovative platform that demonstrated the potential of agile, multi-limbed robots for traversing rugged terrain. This seminal work, published in 2001, remains his most cited paper with 45 citations. Hickey’s earlier research, including his 1997 and 1998 papers on lightweight rovers for Mars science and sample return (garnering 36 and 31 citations respectively), laid the critical groundwork for post-Pathfinder missions. He championed the use of advanced composite materials and novel collapsible structures to create rovers that could survive harsh landings while maximizing scientific payload. Beyond Mars, Hickey explored the application of intelligent mobile systems for the in-space assembly of massive structures like Space Solar Power satellites. His work on thermal control materials for Mars surface operations further highlights his holistic approach to solving the multifaceted challenges of robotic spaceflight. Hickey’s legacy is a direct lineage to the resilient, long-range rovers exploring Mars today.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   LEMUR: Legged Excursion Mechanical Utility Rover

   45 citations · 2001
2. 2
   <title>Lightweight rovers for Mars science exploration and sample return</title>

   36 citations · 1997
3. 3
   <title>New planetary rovers for long-range Mars science and sample return</title>

   31 citations · 1998
4. 4
   Intelligent Mobile Systems for Assembly, Maintenance and Operations for Space Solar Power

   6 citations · 2000
5. 5
   Materials for Thermal Control for Mars Surface Operations

   2 citations · 1998

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links