Montreal Scientist Co-Leads Project in NASA Space Probe Competition
A Montreal scientist has been chosen to co-lead a project in NASA’s space probe competition, showcasing the city’s expertise in the field of space exploration.
Dr. Marie-Claire Arsenault, a professor at the University of Montreal, will be working alongside a team of international researchers to develop a space probe that will study the atmosphere of Venus. The project, called “Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy” (VERITAS), is one of two finalists in NASA’s Discovery Program, which aims to explore the solar system through low-cost, highly focused missions.
Dr. Arsenault’s team will be competing against another project, called “DAVINCI+” (Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging), which will focus on studying the planet’s atmosphere and surface.
The competition, which began in 2019, saw a total of four proposals being submitted. After a rigorous review process, NASA selected the two finalists, with each team receiving $3 million to further develop their project. The final decision on which project will be funded will be made in 2021.
Dr. Arsenault, who specializes in planetary science and remote sensing, expressed her excitement and gratitude for being chosen to co-lead the VERITAS project. She stated that the team’s goal is to better understand the geological processes that have shaped Venus and to determine if the planet was once habitable.
The VERITAS project will use a radar instrument to map the surface of Venus and a spectrometer to study the planet’s atmosphere. This will provide valuable data on the planet’s topography, geology, and composition, which will help scientists understand how Venus evolved and how it differs from Earth.
The team also hopes to answer the question of whether Venus was once a habitable planet. By studying the planet’s atmosphere, they will be able to determine if it once had oceans and if it could have supported life.
Dr. Arsenault’s co-leader, Dr. Suzanne Smrekar from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, praised her expertise and leadership skills, stating that she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project.
The VERITAS project is a testament to Montreal’s growing reputation as a hub for space exploration and research. With its strong academic institutions and talented researchers, the city continues to make significant contributions to the field of space science.
As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on Dr. Arsenault and her team as they work towards developing a groundbreaking space probe that will unlock the mysteries of Venus.
