Richard Aked
Papers
2
Total Citations
6
H-Index
2
About
Richard Aked is a leading figure in lunar exploration, specializing in the development of innovative instrumentation for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and volatile detection. His primary research focuses on the engineering and deployment of low-mass, mobile robotic payloads designed to operate in the extreme environments of the lunar poles. Aked’s major contribution is his work on the Lunar Volatiles Mobile Instrumentation (LUVMI) project, where he led the development of an integrated payload system capable of traversing several kilometers to sample and analyze volatiles like water ice. His 2019 paper, "LUVMI Project Results," details the successful development of a volatiles sampler and analyzer, representing a critical step toward sustainable human presence on the Moon. While his most-cited works currently hold modest citation counts (4 and 2), their significance lies in pioneering hardware that addresses a key goal of the International Space Exploration Coordination Group (ISECG). Aked’s achievements are foundational for future European contributions to lunar rover missions and sample return campaigns, positioning him as a key innovator in the next era of space exploration.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Lunar Volatiles Mobile Instrumentation (LUVMI) Project Results4 citations · 2019
- 2LUVMI: an innovative payload for the sampling of volatiles at the Lunar poles2 citations · 2017