Larry Petway
Papers
5
Total Citations
238
H-Index
4
About
Larry Petway is a leading researcher in lidar technology for space exploration, with a career focused on enabling autonomous, safe landings on planetary bodies. His work centers on the development of advanced laser radar systems, particularly linear FMCW lidar and flash lidar, to provide critical terrain mapping and navigation data. Petway’s most cited paper, “Linear FMCW Laser Radar for Precision Range and Vector Velocity Measurements” (2008, 116 citations), established foundational techniques for high-precision distance and velocity sensing. His contributions are pivotal to NASA’s Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) project, where he has led the development of lidar sensors that generate 3D elevation maps, identify hazards like craters and rocks, and ensure precise approach velocities. With papers accumulating over 200 citations, Petway’s work directly supports future robotic and crewed missions to the Moon and Mars, addressing the challenge of landing in rough, low-illumination terrain. His research is essential for advancing safe, autonomous exploration, making him a key figure in planetary landing systems.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Linear FMCW Laser Radar for Precision Range and Vector Velocity Measurements116 citations · 2008
- 2Lidar systems for precision navigation and safe landing on planetary bodies79 citations · 2011
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