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About

Tod Milam is a researcher specializing in human-robot interaction, autonomous systems, and performance assessment for remote robotic operations, with particular emphasis on space exploration applications. His work sits at the intersection of robotics, human supervision, and real-time analytics, addressing the critical challenge of how humans can effectively oversee and collaborate with robots operating in distant, high-stakes environments. Milam's most significant contributions center on developing frameworks and tools for measuring robot performance in real time during remote operations. His research, conducted in collaboration with NASA, demonstrated practical methods for computing performance metrics during analog lunar field tests, providing mission operators with actionable feedback during robotic reconnaissance missions. His 2010 paper on adjustable autonomy—his most cited work with 33 citations—highlighted how performance measurement can dynamically inform decisions about when robots should operate independently versus under human control. Beyond individual studies, Milam has consistently advanced the broader field by addressing how ground operators and astronauts can supervise robots during complex tasks such as lunar site surveys and outpost construction. With cumulative citations exceeding 89 across his key publications, his work has meaningfully shaped how researchers and engineers approach the design of human-robot teams for future planetary exploration missions.