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About

Eric Park is a robotics researcher whose work sits at the intersection of space exploration, human-robot interaction, and autonomous systems. Based at NASA Ames Research Center, Park has made significant contributions to the development of robotic platforms designed to augment human capabilities in challenging extraterrestrial environments. His most recognized work, "Smart SPHERES: a Telerobotic Free-Flyer for Intravehicular Activities in Space" (2013, 41 citations), introduced a prototype free-flying robot capable of being remotely operated by astronauts or ground controllers aboard spacecraft, demonstrating innovative approaches to intravehicular task automation. Park has been deeply involved in lunar surface operations, contributing foundational research on utility robots, autonomous inspection systems, and human-robot site survey methodologies during NASA's post-Apollo return-to-Moon initiative. His work on robotic reconnaissance — using rovers as advance scouts to improve the scientific return of human missions — reflects a pragmatic, mission-driven design philosophy. Park also contributed to reusable science tools for analog exploration missions, bridging software and field operations. Across his career, his research has collectively earned over 130 citations, helping shape how humans and robots will collaboratively explore planetary surfaces.