Caitlin Ahrens' research involves geophysical and rheological modeling of ice phases and cryovolcanism across the solar system. Dr. Ahrens received her B.S. degrees in Astrophysics and Geology from West Virginia University in 2015, and a Ph.D. in Space and Planetary Science at the University of Arkansas in 2020 working on recreating Plutonian conditions in her laboratory.
Dr. Ahrens is currently a NASA Postdoctoral Program Fellow at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland and a member of the LRO Diviner Science Team, specifically looking at ice at the lunar poles.
Outreach
Caitlin Ahrens is a NASA Solar System Ambassador and has given numerous lectures and presentations to a broad audience. Here is a short list of outreach activities:
- Sun, Moon, Star Lore 11 / 2018 - 11 / 2018
- Museum of Native American History (MONAH), Bentonville, AR
- Meteorites of Arkansas and the World9 / 2019 - 9 / 2019
- University of Arkansas Museum Invited Speaker
- Gardening in Space1 / 2021 - 1 / 2021
- WV Master Gardeners Seminar Speaker
- NASA Solar System Ambassador Events 2017 - Present
"7 Months of Science" Series
In May 2021 Caitlin Ahrens introduced her simulcast program "7 Months of Science" that is broadcast on Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, and Twitter. Her focus is on the researchers and explorers of planetary science.
Recognitions and Awards
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2019: Rising Star Award - West Virginia University Alumni
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2019: FIRST LEGO League Coach/Mentor Service Award
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2018: Ten Outstanding Young Americans (Jaycees)
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2018: Outstanding Young West Virginians (Jaycees)
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2010: Astronomical League Horkheimer/D'Auria Youth Service Award
Links
