We have a space for you
The Geosciences Node of NASA's Planetary Data System (PDS) archives and distributes digital data related to the study of the surfaces and interiors of terrestrial planetary bodies. We work directly with NASA missions to help them generate well-documented, permanent data archives. We provide data to NASA-sponsored researchers along with expert assistance in using the data. All our archives are online and available to the public to download free of charge.
NASA PDS
The Fossett Laboratory for Virtual Planetary Exploration provides infrastructure, equipment, and expertise for high-resolution geospatial data collection, processing, and visualization. The lab operates drone platforms, airborne and terrestrial lidar, multispectral sensors, and survey-grade GNSS for centimeter-accuracy field campaigns. It also develops extended reality (XR) applications for teaching and research. The lab is available to WashU researchers, external collaborators, and industry partners.
Fossett LabThe Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences microanalysis facility is run by Professor Brad Jolliff and Paul Carpenter. The facility includes several pieces of equipment available for outside use:
Micro X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer
Use the online instrument scheduler to reserve time in the microanalysis facility.
The Analytical Biogeochemistry Laboratory Facility is a resource for soil, water, and plant analyses at Washington University and in the St. Louis region. The facility is open to new users and can also provide analyses as a service. Learn more about available instruments and analyses, example projects, and user fees and access on their website.
The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences has five different laboratories that are dedicated to planetary spectroscopy. These planetary spectroscopy facilities are run by Professor Alian Wang and located in Scott Rudolph Hall: Laser Raman imaging laboratory, laser Raman spectroscopy laboratory, NIR and MIR spectroscopy laboratory, planetary environmental analysis chamber, and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy laboratory.
See some of our specialized equipment and instrumentation in facilities and research laboratories.
We have tons of wonderful research facilities here at WashU, some of which are actually quite unique like the LVT and the piston cylinders. In addition to having these instruments here, we also have the experts who are able to teach the students how to use the instruments and what they’re actually doing.
― Andrea Goltz McDonnell Center Graduate Fellow
