Lynn Baroff

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Ames Research Center

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Lynn Baroff is a researcher focused on the intersection of automation, robotics, and human space exploration, with key contributions in control architectures and human-rating standards for extraterrestrial missions. Her work addresses the critical challenge of enabling safe, long-duration human-robotic collaboration on the Moon and beyond. Baroff’s most cited paper, “A Control Architecture for Safe Human-Robotic Interactions During Lunar Surface Missions” (2009, 3 citations), proposes a model- and state-based goal-oriented control system to manage automation beyond current Shuttle and ISS practices, directly tackling the need for robust, safe interaction between astronauts and robots. Her follow-up work, “Human-Rating for Automated and Robotic Systems” (2011, 2 citations), advances the conversation by arguing that while automated systems are technically capable of supporting deep-space exploration, they must be formally human-rated to ensure reliability and safety for crewed missions. Though her citation counts are modest, Baroff’s research is foundational for engineers and mission planners developing the next generation of lunar and Mars exploration systems, bridging the gap between autonomous capability and human operational trust.