Thasshwin Mathanlal
Papers
3
Total Citations
32
H-Index
2
About
Thasshwin Mathanlal is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of planetary science, astrobiology, and robotics, with a focused expertise in subsurface exploration of extraterrestrial environments. His major contributions center on developing and field-testing autonomous robotic platforms for geomorphological and astrobiological investigation in extreme, Earth-based analogue sites. Mathanlal’s most cited work, from the MINAR 5 campaign in the Boulby Mine, UK (25 citations), established foundational methodologies for subsurface science, technology, and education relevant to Mars and other planetary bodies. He further advanced this field through the MINAR6 campaign, where he led rover development (Part I) and integrated results on geomorphology, astrobiology, and mining (Part II). His research demonstrates how autonomous systems can safely access hazardous, communication-limited subsurface environments to study planetary interior processes, hydrology, and potential habitats. By bridging robotics with astrobiology, Mathanlal’s work directly informs future human and robotic missions to Mars and icy moons, making him a key figure in analogue planetary exploration.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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