J. Keller

Papers

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About

J. Keller’s research is centered on the challenges of planetary surface exploration, with a particular focus on mitigating the pervasive problem of dust in extraterrestrial environments. Their most-cited work, “Electrostatic Dust Control on Planetary Surfaces” (2007, 11 citations), is a foundational contribution that directly addresses a critical operational hurdle identified during lunar and Martian missions. Keller’s key insight was to leverage electrostatic forces—both to repel dust from sensitive surfaces like solar panels and instruments, and to actively collect dust samples for in-situ characterization. This dual-purpose approach offers a practical, power-efficient solution to a problem that has historically compromised rover longevity and scientific instrument performance. By demonstrating that electrostatic manipulation could be effectively applied to dry, charged regolith fines, Keller’s work has provided a pathway for future missions to maintain operational cleanliness and gather pristine samples. Their research remains a vital reference for engineers and planetary scientists developing technologies for the Artemis program and upcoming Mars sample-return campaigns, highlighting a deep understanding of both the physics of dusty plasmas and the harsh realities of space exploration.