Greg Flesch
Papers
1
Total Citations
563
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Greg Flesch is a leading figure in planetary science, whose work has profoundly shaped our understanding of Mars’ geochemistry and atmospheric evolution. His primary research focuses on the chemical and isotopic composition of Martian volatiles, with a central role in the Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) investigation aboard the Curiosity rover. Dr. Flesch’s most cited work, the 2012 paper “The Sample Analysis at Mars Investigation and Instrument Suite” (563 citations), details the design and capabilities of the SAM suite, which has been instrumental in analyzing atmospheric gases and organic compounds extracted from Martian soil and rock. His contributions have enabled key discoveries about the planet’s carbon cycle, methane variability, and the history of water. By quantifying isotopic ratios and volatile abundances, Dr. Flesch has helped constrain models of atmospheric loss and habitability. His technical expertise in mass spectrometry and gas chromatography has been critical to SAM’s success, making him a cornerstone of the MSL mission’s scientific return. For students and researchers, his work exemplifies how precise instrumentation and rigorous analysis unlock the secrets of planetary environments.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1The Sample Analysis at Mars Investigation and Instrument Suite563 citations · 2012