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About

Elsa Jensen is a leading planetary scientist whose work has fundamentally shaped how we explore the surface of Mars. Her primary research focuses on developing and operating advanced robotic instruments for in-situ geological and astrobiological investigation, specializing in high-resolution imaging and spectroscopic techniques. As a key figure on NASA’s Mars rover missions, Jensen has made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the Red Planet’s habitability. She is the Principal Investigator of the SHERLOC instrument on the Perseverance rover, a sophisticated spectrometer that uses deep-ultraviolet Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy to map organic compounds and minerals in fine detail—a critical tool in the search for past microbial life. With 237 citations, this work represents a cornerstone of the Mars 2020 mission. Earlier, Jensen was instrumental in the development and operation of the MAHLI camera on the Curiosity rover. This 2-megapixel, focusable macro lens imager, cited 229 times, has provided unprecedented views of Martian rock textures and grain-scale structures, revolutionizing our interpretation of ancient sedimentary environments. Her dual expertise in both imaging and spectroscopy has made her a pivotal figure in planetary exploration.