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About

Stefanie Garnitschnig is a leading figure in planetary analog research, specializing in the simulation of human-robotic Mars exploration missions. Her primary contributions center on the design, execution, and post-mission analysis of high-fidelity field simulations that test operational protocols for future planetary surface expeditions. As a key member of the Austrian Space Forum, she played a central role in the AMADEE-18 mission, a landmark 28-day Mars analog expedition in the Dhofar region of Oman involving 25 nations. Her work on this mission, published in a series of influential papers, has garnered over 34 citations, establishing a benchmark for analog mission methodology. Notably, Garnitschnig led the laboratory analysis of returned samples from AMADEE-18, demonstrating how terrestrial analog sites can validate sample collection and handling procedures critical for future Mars sample return campaigns. She also contributed to the development of remote science operations, refining how geographically dispersed teams can effectively support a simulated planetary surface crew. Through these achievements, Garnitschnig has advanced our understanding of how to prepare for the scientific and logistical challenges of human exploration beyond Earth.