K. M. O'Sullivan
Papers
1
Total Citations
30
H-Index
1
About
K. M. O'Sullivan is a planetary geologist whose research focuses on the petrology and geochemistry of lunar basalts, with a particular emphasis on distinguishing between volcanic and impact-generated materials on the Moon. Her most-cited work, a 2014 study, introduced a non-destructive method using quantitative petrography to differentiate basalts formed by endogenic volcanism from those produced by impact melting. This contribution provides a critical tool for interpreting lunar samples, enabling researchers to better understand the Moon's thermal and impact history without damaging precious specimens. With 30 citations, this paper has become a foundational reference in lunar petrology, influencing subsequent studies on basalt classification and planetary surface processes. O'Sullivan's work bridges the gap between terrestrial petrographic techniques and extraterrestrial sample analysis, offering a rigorous, reproducible approach that has been adopted by other planetary scientists. Her research not only advances our knowledge of lunar geology but also has implications for interpreting basaltic materials on other rocky bodies, such as Mars and Mercury. Through her methodical and innovative contributions, O'Sullivan has established herself as a key figure in the study of planetary volcanism and impact processes.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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