Cyril Grima

Cyril Grima's research delves into the intricate environments of planetary bodies within our solar system, with a focus on understanding their fundamental evolutionary processes. As a Research Assistant Professor at the Jackson School of Geosciences and the UT Institute for Geophysics at the University of Texas, he employs space-borne radar instruments to unravel the mysteries of these celestial entities. His work is pivotal in advancing our knowledge of planetary analogs, surface properties inversion, and the selection of planetary landing sites. Grima's expertise extends to the study of radar wave propagation in planetary ionospheres, a field that is crucial for interpreting the data collected by radar instruments. His involvement in significant radar instrument projects underscores his commitment to this area of research. Notably, he has contributed to the SHARAD project on Mars, which aims to explore the Martian subsurface, and the RIME project on Ganymede, which seeks to investigate the moon's icy shell. In addition to his work on Mars and Ganymede, Cyril Grima has played a role in the Cassini RADAR project on Titan, where he has helped to map the moon's surface and study its dynamic atmosphere. His participation in the REASON project on Europa further highlights his dedication to understanding the icy moons of our solar system, as this project aims to probe beneath Europa's ice shell to search for signs of subsurface oceans. Grima's research is not only instrumental in advancing our understanding of planetary bodies but also in informing future planetary exploration missions. By selecting optimal landing sites and interpreting surface properties, his work aids in the planning and execution of missions that could one day uncover the secrets of our solar system's most enigmatic worlds. Through his innovative approach and dedication to planetary science, Cyril Grima continues to push the boundaries of what we know about the solar system. His contributions are paving the way for future discoveries and enhancing our comprehension of the complex processes that shape planetary environments.