Josh Rushton
Papers
1
Total Citations
2
H-Index
1
About
Josh Rushton is a space exploration engineer whose work focuses on in situ resource utilization (ISRU) and the robotic extraction of volatiles from extraterrestrial bodies, particularly the Moon. His key research areas include planetary drilling technologies, sample acquisition systems, and the development of low-cost, innovative payloads for polar lunar missions. Rushton’s major contribution is his leading role in the LUVMI (Lunar Volatiles Mobile Instrument) project, a lightweight rover and payload concept designed to locate, drill, and analyze water ice and other volatiles at the lunar poles. This work directly supports the International Space Exploration Coordination Group’s (ISECG) first-step goals for in situ investigations of the Moon and asteroids. While his most-cited paper, “LUVMI: an innovative payload for the sampling of volatiles at the Lunar poles” (2017), has garnered 2 citations, its significance lies in its foundational role for European Space Agency (ESA) technology development programs. Rushton’s engineering contributions are critical to enabling sustainable human exploration by demonstrating how to harvest local resources—a key stepping stone toward a permanent lunar presence.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1LUVMI: an innovative payload for the sampling of volatiles at the Lunar poles2 citations · 2017