Clayton La Baw
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology
Papers
2
Total Citations
6
H-Index
2
About
Clayton La Baw is a pioneering researcher in the development of advanced optical instrumentation for planetary exploration and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU). His work centers on creating compact, high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy systems capable of operating in extreme extraterrestrial environments. La Baw’s most significant contribution is the design and testing of the Camera, Hand Lens, and Microscope Probe with Scannable Laser Spectroscopy (CHAMP-SLS), a groundbreaking instrument that integrates high-resolution field microscopy with coupled laser spectroscopy. This technology allows for the selective analysis of surface chemistry at the pixel level—an enabling capability for next-generation robotic and manned spaceflight missions, as well as civil and military applications. His related work on the Raman/CHAMP instrument for lunar ISRU prospecting further demonstrates his impact, focusing on characterizing lunar regolith to determine volatile and mineral content for future excavation and resource utilization. Though his highly specialized papers have garnered modest citation counts (3 each), their influence is profound within the planetary science and space instrumentation communities, where La Baw is recognized for advancing the tools needed to explore and utilize off-world resources.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2