Sand formations on Mars may provide crucial insights into the planet’s enigmatic ecosystem, and Texas A&M Geology & Geophysics Ph.D. candidate Lauren Berger is prepared to unravel their mysteries. Recently honored with a distinguished grant from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Berger is embarking on a project that could unveil fresh perspectives regarding the Red Planet’s wind dynamics, atmospheric phenomena, and beyond. The FINESST (Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology) grant facilitates groundbreaking research in earth and planetary studies.
Berger’s initiative, Insights into the Martian Environment Through Pattern Analysis of Compound Dunes, concentrates on investigating dune structures on Mars utilizing high-resolution imagery obtained from NASA’s orbiting satellites. These “compound dunes”—composed of smaller dunes stacked on top of one another—are well-documented on Earth yet remain largely unexplored on Mars.
“The configuration and design of these aeolian formations—geological constructs shaped by wind—can reveal a wealth of information about the environment,” Berger articulated. “By contrasting compound dunes on Mars with those on Earth, we can uncover both similarities and distinctions that may enhance our comprehension of the Martian landscape and atmosphere.”
This pioneering investigation is backed by the FINESST program, which granted funding to merely 156 projects out of 1,120 total entries. The competitive nature of this selection process makes securing this grant both uncommon and noteworthy.
“Lauren exhibits passion and commitment as a student,” remarked Dr. Julia Reece, Berger’s mentor and an assistant professor within the Department of Geology & Geophysics. “The FINESST grant signifies a tremendous achievement that she should take pride in. It will enable her to concentrate on her research, foster her partnership with NASA, and evolve as a leader in earth and planetary sciences.”
Hailing from New York, Berger cultivated her enthusiasm for geology and wind-formed landscapes during her undergraduate studies at Occidental College in Los Angeles, where she received a degree in geology. During her academic tenure, she interned at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, mapping sand formations on Mars. Her experiences with the National Park Service and NASA stimulated her inquisitiveness about aeolian formations, leading her to Texas A&M, where she discovered a program that aligned with her interests in planetary studies and began collaborating with Dr. Ryan Ewing, who is currently based at NASA’S Johnson Space Center.
As part of her research at Texas A&M with the FINESST grant, Berger’s initial goal is to identify all existing compound dunes on Mars. Utilizing high-resolution imagery from NASA’s Context Camera and High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment, she will analyze their forms and compare them with analogous dunes on Earth to enhance understanding of their formation and what they indicate about the Martian environment.
“After spending years examining sand ripples as potential hazards for the Perseverance Rover, a NASA robotic entity exploring Mars in search of signs of ancient life, I sought to delve more deeply into the science behind them,” stated Berger.
Dr. Marion Nachon, the principal investigator for this research initiative and an associate research scientist in the department, has been a vital mentor for Berger throughout her endeavors. Nachon highlights how unique and precious the FINESST grant is for emerging researchers, providing an exclusive chance to propel their careers forward.
“With this highly sought-after FINESST grant award, Lauren is afforded an extraordinary chance to advance her development as an enthusiastic and promising scientist,” Nachon remarked. “She’s aspiring to reach the stars and planets!”
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