February 6, 2025, Ziyu Huang, Georgia Tech

Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Tech
2:15 p.m.
310 Kelly Hall

"From Atoms to Planets: Multiscale Simulations in Lunar Exploration and Space Physics"

Abstract: Understanding the formation and evolution of lunar volatiles is critical for advancing in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and supporting future crewed Artemis missions. Multiscale simulations, spanning atomic to planetary scales, provide insights into the origins, thermal stability, and extraction strategies of these volatiles. These methods also extend to the study of computational plasma physics, where they are integrated with machine learning techniques to investigate electrospray thrusters and model planetary magnetospheres. Together, these efforts drive advancements in sustainable exploration technologies and enable deeper scientific exploration of the solar system. This talk will highlight how multiscale modeling supports lunar exploration, ISRU, and advanced propulsion, demonstrating its transformative impact on space exploration and discovery.

Bio: Dr. Ziyu Huang is a postdoctoral fellow at the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering at Georgia Tech and a member of the NASA SSERVI CLEVER team working on lunar exploration research. His work focuses on lunar volatile formation and evolution using molecular dynamics simulations, with implications for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and future crewed Artemis missions. Recently, his work explored the application of deep learning in plasma physics to advance modeling in space physics and low-temperature plasma. He also uses JWST data to study exoplanet atmospheres and understand volatiles on asteroid surfaces, supporting NASA's small body exploration missions.