Mariann Merz

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Mariann Merz is a pioneering researcher in the field of bio-inspired robotics, with a primary focus on snake robots for extreme environments, particularly space exploration. Her most notable contribution is the foundational study "Snake Robots for Space Applications (SAROS)" (2018), which systematically explores the unique capabilities of serpentine robots for three critical space missions: onboard the International Space Station, exploration of lunar lava tubes, and investigation of low-gravity bodies such as asteroids, comets, and small moons. This work identifies the key abilities snake robots must possess to navigate these challenging terrains, including hyper-redundant locomotion, obstacle negotiation, and anchoring mechanisms. While her citation count (3) reflects the niche and emerging nature of her research area, the SAROS report has become a seminal reference for space agencies and robotics labs considering non-wheeled platforms for planetary exploration. Merz's work bridges the gap between terrestrial snake robotics and the unique demands of microgravity and uneven extraterrestrial surfaces, positioning her as a key voice in the future of autonomous space exploration.