Dr. Joel Hurowitz’s research on the PIXL Instrument to Search for Signs of Past Life on Mars

On April 30, Dr. Joel Hurowitz from the Department of Geosciences presented his collaborative research on the Planetary Instrument for X-ray Lithochemistry, or PIXL, which will be part of the scientific payload of the Mars 2020 rover mission.  PIXL is a micro-focus X-ray fluorescence instrument used to detect chemical “biosignatures” in rocks to determine if there was microbial life along Mars’s previous flowing rivers.  PIXL, importantly, will help provide a better understanding of the paleo-environmental conditions on Mars.

This intriguing lecture not only was well-attended but also ignited a rich discussion by students and faculty.  Additionally, the lecture attracted Robert Emproto from University Communications to come to the presentation. He will write a short story on the lecture that will be featured in SBU News.  Congratulations to Dr. Hurowitz!

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Clara Tran

Science Librarian at Stony Brook University Libraries

Clara is the liaison to the Department of Chemistry, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and the Women in Science and Engineering program.
Email: yuet.tran@stonybrook.edu

Latest posts by Clara Tran (see all)

• Dr. Joel Hurowitz’s research on the PIXL Instrument to Search for Signs of Past Life on Mars - May 3, 2019
• STEM Speaker Series: “The PIXL Investigation on the Mars 2020 Rover Mission: Investigating Ancient Environments and Searching for Signs of Past Life on Mars” by Dr. Joel Hurowitz - April 11, 2019
• Dr. Amy Marschilok on “Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems: Progress and Opportunities” - March 22, 2019