Ryan Watkins

Research Scientist at Washington University in St. Louis, studying the lunar surface using photometry of Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) images. I specifically use photometric modeling to study the effects of rocket exhaust on lunar soil and to investigate silicic regions on the Moon. My research interests are in lunar geology and geophysics, planetary exploration, human exploration, and photometric studies of planetary bodies with applications to exploration. Also passionate about advocating for STEM funding and continued space exploration (both manned and robotic). Heavily involved in Education and Public Outreach. Intern at NASA for three summers - two summers at Kennedy Space Center doing research on lunar soil erosion physics for landing rockets on the Moon and one at JPL working on a Student Collaboration Team for the proposed MoonRise mission, where we designed an imaging system to fly on the MoonRise communication satellite. STEM advocate and NASA Student Ambassador - please contact me if you are interested in a speaking engagement regarding STEM outreach or the current/future vision of NASA. Also see my website http://ryanclegg.webs.com for more info. Specialties: Research, physics, photometry, ministry, organization