A. F. Davila

Ames Research Center

Papers

2

Total Citations

55

H-Index

2

About

A. F. Davila is a leading astrobiologist and planetary scientist whose work bridges the study of life’s limits on Earth with the search for habitable environments beyond it. His research centers on the astrobiological potential of ice-rich environments, both terrestrial and extraterrestrial, and the development of analog science to prepare for human exploration of the Moon and Mars. Davila’s major contributions include co-authoring foundational studies on midlatitude ground ice on Mars, which frame these deposits as prime targets for detecting biosignatures and as potential in situ resources for future crewed missions. His work on the Pavilion Lake Research Project—a landmark analog study—has been cited over 40 times and is recognized for integrating science, exploration, and operational field testing in an underwater environment. With a publication record that spans high-impact journals and NASA technical reports, Davila’s research has shaped how the planetary science community views the intersection of habitability, resource utilization, and astrobiology. His insights continue to guide the strategic planning for robotic and human exploration of icy worlds and Martian midlatitudes.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

2
H-Index
2
Papers
55
Total Citations
28
Avg Citations/Paper
🏆 Most Cited Paper
A historical overview of the Pavilion Lake Research Project—Analog science and exploration in an underwater environment
40 citations · 2011
📈 Most Prolific Year: 2011 (1 Papers)
🤝 Key Collaborators: 66
🏛 Institutions: Ames Research Center

Top Papers

  1. 1
  2. 2

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links

Available for collaboration
Content generated · 15 days ago