Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Randy Pollock is a leading figure in planetary science and astrobiology, best known for his instrumental role in the Mars 2020 mission. His primary research focuses on the development and deployment of advanced spectroscopic instrumentation for in-situ planetary exploration, specifically targeting the detection of organic compounds and the assessment of past habitability. Pollock’s most significant contribution is his work on NASA’s Perseverance rover, where he was instrumental in the SHERLOC (Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman and Luminescence for Organics and Chemicals) investigation. As detailed in his highly cited 2021 paper (237 citations), SHERLOC is a robotic arm-mounted spectrometer that uses deep-ultraviolet Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy to create high-resolution chemical maps of Martian rocks and regolith. This capability is critical for identifying potential biosignatures. Pollock also led the design and outreach for the SHERLOC calibration target (35 citations), a unique component that includes materials for future human exploration. His work on the instrument’s processing electronics (2020) further underscores his deep technical expertise. Through these contributions, Pollock is directly enabling humanity’s search for past life on Mars.