Community Survey: Field-Based Studies And Sample Processing Facility

Scientists at Northern Arizona University are conducting a research study gathering views from members of the planetary science community on field-based studies and the interest in a potential centralized facility for sample processing and analysis.

The Field Sample Processing and Analysis (Field-SPA) facility is a concept for a centralized facility to provide baseline sample characterization capabilities. The services offered by Field-SPA are meant to be complementary to more specialized capabilities available via NASA’s Planetary Science Enabling Facilities (e.g., PRECISE, RELAB, K-ALPHAA).

We are interested in learning about individual experiences, and the barriers members of the community may face when engaging in or planning fieldwork. We are also attempting to determine whether a centralized facility offering sample processing and consultation services would change the way you approach and propose field-based investigations.

All responses are anonymous and we expect this survey to take <10 minutes to complete. You can access the survey using the following link: https://qualtrics.nau.edu/jfe/form/SV_7NXhYtVVHy6oX8q

If you have questions about this project or if you have a research-related problem, you may contact Jean-Francois Smekens at [email protected].

Thank you for considering participation.

Astrobiology,