Kelli McCoy
Papers
1
Total Citations
3
H-Index
1
About
Kelli McCoy is a leading voice in planetary protection and astrobiology, whose work addresses one of space exploration’s most profound challenges: how to responsibly investigate geologically active ocean worlds without contaminating them. Her research focuses on the intersection of planetary science, ethics, and exploration policy, with a particular emphasis on icy moons like Europa and Enceladus. In her most-cited paper, "Resurfacing: An Approach to Planetary Protection for Geologically Active Ocean Worlds" (2022, 3 citations), McCoy proposes a novel framework for managing the risks of forward contamination on worlds where active geological processes—such as cryovolcanism or ice tectonics—could transport terrestrial microbes into subsurface oceans. This work is notable for shifting the conversation from static contamination controls to dynamic, process-based strategies, offering a pragmatic path forward for future missions. While early in her citation trajectory, McCoy’s contributions are already recognized as foundational in a niche but critical field, earning her a reputation as a thoughtful innovator in planetary protection policy. Her research is essential reading for anyone interested in the ethical and technical dimensions of exploring potentially habitable worlds beyond Earth.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1