Igor Drozdovskiy

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Igor Drozdovskiy is a leading figure in planetary geology and astronaut training, whose work is central to preparing for human exploration of the Moon and Mars. His primary research focuses on developing real-time geological support tools for astronauts, bridging the gap between terrestrial field geology and extraterrestrial surface operations. Drozdovskiy’s most notable contribution is the creation of the PANGAEA Mineralogical Database, a cornerstone of the European Space Agency’s PANGAEA training program. This database, detailed in his 2020 paper (12 citations), provides astronauts with a rapid, high-quality decision-making tool for identifying and characterizing planetary materials during surface missions. By integrating mineralogical data into a user-friendly format, his work directly enhances the scientific return of future crewed expeditions. Beyond the database, Drozdovskiy’s achievements include designing and leading field campaigns in analogue environments, such as the Italian Dolomites and Lanzarote, where he trains astronauts to conduct astrobiological and geological surveys. His research has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of planetary explorers, ensuring that human missions to the Moon and Mars are equipped with the knowledge and tools to perform rigorous, autonomous science.