Simulating Mechanical Properties of Planetary Surface

This project aims to investigate the mechanical, thermal, and hydrodynamical processes that shape planetary surfaces. To achieve this goal, we will first enhance high-performance numerical codes to simulate the structural and thermal evolution of a planetary body’s surface, as well as its hydrothermal convection, with a particular focus on Europa. Next, we will focus on modeling dust particle dynamics on planetary surfaces, with an emphasis on comets, the Moon, and Mars. This will involve extending an existing soft-sphere discrete element code to simulate the interactions between dust and gas, including electrostatic effects, to better understand how dust evolves on planetary surfaces. The insights gained from this project will advance our understanding of planetary evolution in our solar system and beyond.

People

Project ID: 1112