T. P. McClanahan
Papers
2
Total Citations
182
H-Index
2
About
T. P. McClanahan is a planetary scientist whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of the Moon and the tools needed to explore other worlds. His primary research areas include lunar geology, planetary surface processes, and the development of instrumentation for in-situ geochemical and astrobiological exploration. McClanahan's most impactful contribution is his role in the Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter (LOLA) mission, where he co-authored the landmark 2016 summary of seven years of lunar observations. This paper, cited over 170 times, provided a comprehensive view of the Moon's topography, polar shadowed regions, and surface roughness, reshaping our knowledge of lunar evolution and resources. Earlier, he contributed to the design of a pulsed neutron generator system (2005), a novel tool for detecting water and organic compounds beneath planetary surfaces. This work, while less cited, underscores his commitment to enabling future missions to Mars, the Moon, and asteroids. McClanahan's blend of data analysis and instrument innovation makes him a key figure in planetary science, bridging the gap between remote sensing and direct exploration.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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