Sofia Kwok

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Dr. Sofia Kwok is a leading figure in planetary drilling technology, whose work is essential to the future of in situ resource utilization (ISRU) on the Moon. Her primary research focuses on developing advanced rotary-percussive drilling systems capable of penetrating the challenging lunar regolith and ice deposits. Dr. Kwok’s major contribution is the conceptualization and development of the SMART drill (Sensing, Measurement, Analysis, and Reconnaissance Tool), a next-generation instrument that integrates drilling with real-time sensing for autonomous resource assessment. Her most-cited paper, "SMART: Instrumented Drill for ISRU Investigations on the Moon," details this system and has garnered significant attention within the space engineering community. By advancing the technology for extracting water and other volatiles directly from the lunar surface, Dr. Kwok is laying the groundwork for sustainable human presence beyond Earth. Her work at Honeybee Robotics represents a critical step toward turning the Moon into a viable outpost for exploration and science.