With the selection of two new NASA missions to Venus there is an increased interest in our sister world and what it might tell us about the evolution of our own worlds and terrestrial extrasolar planets. Given that the newly selected Venus missions will not launch for almost 8 years it provides time to investigate data sets from previous NASA missions to Venus to better inform these upcoming missions. In collaboration with colleagues from the USA and France we are re-examining data from the Pioneer Venus Large Probe Neutral Mass Spectrometer in comparison with results from the Pioneer Venus Large Probe Gas Chromatograph and Soviet era Venera and Vega landers.

This opportunity presents prospective applicants the potential to explore this rich under examined data set from the late 1970s. We hope our study will better quantify atmospheric constituents and the potential for local disequilbria in the atmosphere and other unexplored chemistries.

We are interested in self-sufficient applicants with the capacity for interdisciplinary research, with a desire to apply their talents to questions that lie at the intersection of mass spectrometer data analysis, chemistry/biochemistry and spacecraft instrument design.   Thus, if you are interested in applying to this opportunity, please contact the primary advisor (Michael Way) in advance to coordinate your proposed activities.  

Location:
Goddard Institute for Space Studies
New York City, New York

Field of Science: Planetary Science

Advisors:
Michael Way
Michael.Way@nasa.gov
(212) 678-5665

• Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
• Degree: Doctoral Degree.