A list of all the posts and pages found on the site. For you robots out there, there is an XML version available for digesting as well.
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Posts
Optimize your loan repayment strategy
Published:
Loans are like armpits - we all have them and they all stink. If you’ve been researching debt repayment strategies, you’ve probably come across two popular methods: the “Snowball” method and the “Avalanche” method.
Codifying Intuition in the Search for Life
Published:
I recently published an article in the Nature Communities discussing how we can move beyond intuition-driven approaches to systematically search for signs of life on Mars.
Where to Find Biosignatures on Mars: A Case for Clays
Published:
I wrote this article for Astrobites, a site dedicated to explaining recent research in astronomy and planetary science to undergraduate students.
portfolio
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publications
Hollows on Mercury: No Geographic Trends in Reflectance
Published in 47th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2016
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Emery, J.P., & Moersch, J.E. (2016). "Hollows on Mercury: No Geographic Trends in Reflectance." 47th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2178.
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Composition and Distribution of Northern Hellas Massifs: Preliminary Results
Published in AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts, 2016
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. & Viviano-Beck, C.E. (2016). "Composition and Distribution of Northern Hellas Massifs: Preliminary Results." AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts. Abstract P11E-04.
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Thresholds of Detectability for Habitable Environments in the Atacama Desert, with Implications for Mars Exploration
Published in 48th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2017
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Cabrol, N.A., & Davila, A.F. (2017). "Thresholds of Detectability for Habitable Environments in the Atacama Desert, with Implications for Mars Exploration." 48th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2042.
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Advancing Astrobiology Through Public/Private Partnership: The FDL Model
Published in 49th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2018
Discussion of the Frontier Development Lab model for advancing astrobiology research through public-private partnerships and machine learning.
Recommended citation: Cabrol, N.A., Diamond, W.H., Bishop, J., Cady, S.L., Fenton, L., Hinman, N., Jain, S., Lowndes, A., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2018). "Advancing Astrobiology Through Public/Private Partnership: The FDL Model." 49th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1275.
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Feldspathic Rock in Ancient Crust, N. Hellas, Mars: Implications for Early Mantle Conditions
Published in Differentiation: Building the Internal Architecture of Planets, 2018
Analysis of feldspathic rock compositions in northern Hellas providing insights into early Martian mantle conditions and differentiation.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., & Viviano, C.E. (2018). "Feldspathic Rock in Ancient Crust, N. Hellas, Mars: Implications for Early Mantle Conditions." Differentiation: Building the Internal Architecture of Planets. Abstract 4026.
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Thresholds of Detection and Identification of Halite Nodule Habitats in the Atacama Desert Using Remote Imaging
Published in 49th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2018
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Cabrol, N.A., & Davila, A.F. (2018). "Thresholds of Detection and Identification of Halite Nodule Habitats in the Atacama Desert Using Remote Imaging." 49th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1289.
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Hydrothermal alteration in association with large impact basins on Mars
Published in European Planetary Science Congress, 2018
Study of hydrothermal processes and mineral alteration patterns around major Martian impact basins.
Recommended citation: Viviano, C. & Phillips, M.S. (2018). "Hydrothermal alteration in association with large impact basins on Mars." European Planetary Science Congress. Abstract EPSC2018-781.
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Hydrothermal Alteration and Large Impact Basins on Mars
Published in 50th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2019
Investigation of hydrothermal alteration processes associated with large impact basins and their implications for early Mars habitability.
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E. & Phillips, M.S. (2019). "Hydrothermal Alteration and Large Impact Basins on Mars." 50th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2824.
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Plagioclase in Primary Mineralogy of Ancient Crust, Northern Hellas, Mars
Published in 50th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2019
Spectroscopic detection and analysis of plagioclase in ancient crustal rocks of northern Hellas region on Mars.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Viviano, C.E., & Moersch, J.E. (2019). "Plagioclase in Primary Mineralogy of Ancient Crust, Northern Hellas, Mars." 50th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2137.
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Hydrothermal Alteration Related to Large Impact Basins
Published in Ninth International Conference on Mars, 2019
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E. & Phillips, M.S. (2019). "Hydrothermal Alteration Related to Large Impact Basins." Ninth International Conference on Mars. Abstract 6359.
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Landscape Ecology of Microbial Communities in the Mars Analog Salar de Pajonales, Chile
Published in Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2019, 2019
Ecological study of microbial communities in the Mars analog environment of Salar de Pajonales, Chile, examining habitability patterns.
Recommended citation: Warren-Rhodes, K., Cabrol, N.A., Hinman, N.W., Demergasso, C., Tebes, C.J., Rodriguez, C., Phillips, M.S., Chong, G., Moersch, J., & Sobron, P. (2019). "Landscape Ecology of Microbial Communities in the Mars Analog Salar de Pajonales, Chile." Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2019. Abstract 141-169.
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A New Community Resource for Terrestrial Analog Field Research: A Visible to Shortwave Infrared (400–2500 nm) Drone- and Ground-based Hyperspectral Imager for High Resolution Compositional Mapping
Published in 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, Abstract #1865, 2020
Recommended citation: Moersch, J.E., Mondro, C.A., Leight, C.J., & Phillips, M.S. (2020). "A New Community Resource for Terrestrial Analog Field Research: A Visible to Shortwave Infrared (400–2500 nm) Drone- and Ground-based Hyperspectral Imager for High Resolution Compositional Mapping." 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, Abstract #1865.
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A Thermal Model and the Hermean Hollows: Constraints on Plausible Volatiles Involved in Hollow Formation on Mercury
Published in 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2020
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. & Moersch, J.E. (2020). "A Thermal Model and the Hermean Hollows: Constraints on Plausible Volatiles Involved in Hollow Formation on Mercury." 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2442.
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Regional Compositional Mapping Using CRISM Multispectral Mapping Data
Published in 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2020
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E., Seelos, K.D., Phillips, M.S., Cartwright, S.F.A., Beck, A.W., Seelos, F.P., Murchie, S.L., Dapremont, A.M., Frizzell, K.R., & Smith, I.B. (2020). "Regional Compositional Mapping Using CRISM Multispectral Mapping Data." 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1485.
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Remote Detection and Identification of Microbial Habitats in the Altiplano of Chile, a Mars Analog
Published in 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2020
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Warren-Rhodes, K., Hinman, N.W., & Cabrol, N.A. (2020). "Remote Detection and Identification of Microbial Habitats in the Altiplano of Chile, a Mars Analog." 51st Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2378.
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Temporal multispectral and 3D analysis of Cerro de Pasco, Peru
Published in Science of the Total Environment, 2020
Multispectral and 3D analysis of mining impacts and environmental changes at Cerro de Pasco using remote sensing techniques.
Recommended citation: Melton, C.A., Hughes, D.C., Page, D.L., & Phillips, M.S. (2020). "Temporal multispectral and 3D analysis of Cerro de Pasco, Peru." Science of the Total Environment. 706, 135640.
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Addressing Strategic Knowledge Gaps in the Search for Biosignatures on Mars
Published in Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 2021
Strategic assessment of current knowledge gaps and future research priorities for Mars biosignature detection.
Recommended citation: Cabrol, N., Bishop, J., Cady, S.L., Demergasso, C., Hinman, N., Hoffman, M., Kanik, I., Moersch, J., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2021). "Addressing Strategic Knowledge Gaps in the Search for Biosignatures on Mars." Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society. 53(4), 223.
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Composition of >4.1 Ga Crustal Blocks Northern Hellas, Mars
Published in GSA Connects 2021, Portland, Oregon, Paper No. 240-1 (Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs, Vol. 53, No. 6), 2021
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Viviano, C.E., Moersch, J.E., Rogers, A.D., McSween, H.Y., & Seelos, F.P. (2021). "Composition of >4.1 Ga Crustal Blocks Northern Hellas, Mars." GSA Connects 2021, Portland, Oregon, Paper No. 240-1 (Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs, Vol. 53, No. 6). 53(6), Paper 240-1.
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Planetary processes active and ancient: Hollowing on Mercury, ancient crust formation on Mars, and identifying Mars-analog habitats.
Published in PhD Dissertation, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (advisor J.E. Moersch), 2021
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. (2021). "Planetary processes active and ancient: Hollowing on Mercury, ancient crust formation on Mars, and identifying Mars-analog habitats." PhD Dissertation, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (advisor J.E. Moersch).
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Convolutional Neural Network Image Classification of Mars-Analog Terrain: Preliminary Results and Implications for the Search for Life on Mars
Published in 52nd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2021
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Warren-Rhodes, K., Hinman, N.W., Cabrol, N.A., & Candela, A. (2021). "Convolutional Neural Network Image Classification of Mars-Analog Terrain: Preliminary Results and Implications for the Search for Life on Mars." 52nd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2510.
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Unique Basin-Related Alteration on Early Mars
Published in 52nd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2021
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E., Phillips, M.S., Seelos, K.D., & Roberts, J.H. (2021). "Unique Basin-Related Alteration on Early Mars." 52nd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1675.
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Planetary Geologic Mapping
Published in Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 2021
Recommended citation: Mouginis-Mark, P., Burr, D., Byrne, P., Coles, K., Crown, D.A., Patthoff, A., Phillips, M.S., Prockter, L., et al. (2021). "Planetary Geologic Mapping." Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society. 53(4), 408.
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The lifecycle of hollows on Mercury: An evaluation of candidate volatile phases and a novel model of formation
Published in Icarus, 2021
Comprehensive analysis of Mercury's enigmatic hollow features, evaluating volatile phases and proposing a novel formation mechanism.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Viviano, C.E., & Emery, J.P. (2021). "The lifecycle of hollows on Mercury: An evaluation of candidate volatile phases and a novel model of formation." Icarus. 359, 114306.
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Regional compositional trends in the circum-Isidis and Hellas regions
Published in AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts, 2021
Regional analysis of surface composition around major impact basins on Mars using orbital spectroscopy data.
Recommended citation: Viviano, C. & Phillips, M.S. (2021). "Regional compositional trends in the circum-Isidis and Hellas regions." AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts. Abstract P54A-05.
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Inferring molecular complexity from mass spectrometry data using machine learning
Published in Machine Learning and the Physical Sciences Workshop, NeurIPS 2022, 2022
Recommended citation: Gebhard, T.D., Bell, A.C., Gong, J., Hastings, J.J.A., Fricke, G.M., Cabrol, N., Sandford, S., Phillips, M.S., Warren-Rhodes, K., & Baydin, A.G. (2022). "Inferring molecular complexity from mass spectrometry data using machine learning." Machine Learning and the Physical Sciences Workshop, NeurIPS 2022.
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Insights of Extreme Desert Ecology to the Habitats and Habitability of Mars
Published in Microbiology of Hot Deserts (Ecological Studies, vol. 244), Springer Cham, 2022
Recommended citation: Warren-Rhodes, K., Phillips, M.S., Davila, A., & McKay, C.P. (2022). "Insights of Extreme Desert Ecology to the Habitats and Habitability of Mars." Microbiology of Hot Deserts (Ecological Studies, vol. 244), Springer Cham. Ecological Studies 244.
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Signatures of Life: Learning Features of Prebiotic and Biotic Molecules
Published in NASA Frontier Development Lab (FDL) 2022 Astrobiology technical report, 2022
Recommended citation: Bell, A.C., Gebhard, T.D., Gong, J., Hastings, J.J.A., Baydin, A.G., Fricke, G.M., Phillips, M.S., Warren-Rhodes, K., et al. (2022). "Signatures of Life: Learning Features of Prebiotic and Biotic Molecules." NASA Frontier Development Lab (FDL) 2022 Astrobiology technical report.
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Surface Morphologies in a Mars-Analog Ca-Sulfate Salar, High Andes, Northern Chile
Published in Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences, 2022
Characterization of surface morphologies in a high-altitude calcium sulfate salar, providing insights into Mars analog environments and sulfate formation processes.
Recommended citation: Hinman, N.W., Hofmann, M.H., Warren-Rhodes, K., Phillips, M.S., Noffke, N., Cabrol, N.A., Chong Diaz, G., Demergasso, C., et al. (2022). "Surface Morphologies in a Mars-Analog Ca-Sulfate Salar, High Andes, Northern Chile." Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences. 8, 797591.
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Gypsum Habit Demarcates Zones of Habitability at Decameter to Millimeter Scales
Published in Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2022, 2022
Study of gypsum crystal habits as indicators of habitable zones across multiple spatial scales in Mars analog environments.
Recommended citation: Hinman, N.W., Hofmann, M.H., Warren-Rhodes, K., Phillips, M.S., Cabrol, N.A., Tebes, C.J., Noffke, N.K., Carrizo, D., et al. (2022). "Gypsum Habit Demarcates Zones of Habitability at Decameter to Millimeter Scales." Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2022. Abstract 242-03.
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CRISM Hyperspectral Mapping Data Preliminary Empirical Radiometric Reconciliation
Published in 53rd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2022
Development of radiometric calibration methods for CRISM hyperspectral mapping data to improve data quality and accuracy.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Seelos, F.P., & Murchie, S.L. (2022). "CRISM Hyperspectral Mapping Data Preliminary Empirical Radiometric Reconciliation." 53rd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1487.
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Decoding the Patterns of Life: Towards Predictive Search and Biosignature Detection in the Salar de Pajonales (Chile), A Blueprint for Mars and Beyond
Published in Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2022, 2022
Recommended citation: Warren-Rhodes, K., Cabrol, N.A., Phillips, M.S., Hinman, N.W., Kalaitzis, F., Tebes, C.J., Demergasso, C., Chong, G., Wettergreen, D.S., & Anza, D.A. (2022). "Decoding the Patterns of Life: Towards Predictive Search and Biosignature Detection in the Salar de Pajonales (Chile), A Blueprint for Mars and Beyond." Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) 2022. Abstract 203-01.
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What is that? Identification confidence of Mars analog habitats with Deep Learning
Published in European Planetary Science Congress, 2022
Deep learning approach to automated identification and classification of Mars analog habitats with confidence metrics.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. (2022). "What is that? Identification confidence of Mars analog habitats with Deep Learning." European Planetary Science Congress. Abstract EPSC2022-1200.
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Mars uplifted massifs: unique and extensive samples of ancient crust
Published in European Planetary Science Congress, 2022
Analysis of uplifted massifs on Mars as windows into ancient crustal composition and early planetary processes.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Viviano, C., Moersch, J., Rogers, A.D., & Seelos, F. (2022). "Mars uplifted massifs: unique and extensive samples of ancient crust." European Planetary Science Congress. Abstract EPSC2022-736.
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Extensive and ancient feldspathic crust detected across north Hellas rim, Mars: Possible implications for primary crust formation
Published in Geology, 2022
Discovery of extensive feldspathic crust around the northern Hellas basin rim, providing insights into Mars' primary crustal formation and early differentiation.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Viviano, C.E., Moersch, J.E., Rogers, A.D., McSween, H.Y., & Seelos, F.P. (2022). "Extensive and ancient feldspathic crust detected across north Hellas rim, Mars: Possible implications for primary crust formation." Geology. 50(10), 1182-1186.
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Modeling Molecular Complexity: Building a Novel Multidisciplinary Machine Learning Framework to Understand Molecular Synthesis and Signatures
Published in AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts, 2022
Recommended citation: Hastings, J.J.A., Bell, A.C., Gebhard, T., Gong, J., Baydin, A.G., Fricke, M., Mascaro, M., Phillips, M.S., Warren-Rhodes, K., & Cabrol, N.A. (2022). "Modeling Molecular Complexity: Building a Novel Multidisciplinary Machine Learning Framework to Understand Molecular Synthesis and Signatures." AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts. Abstract IN22D-0334.
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Molecular Complexity to Biosignatures: A Machine Learning Pipeline that Connects Mass Spectrometry to Molecular Synthesis and Reaction Networks
Published in AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts, 2022
Recommended citation: Gong, J., Bell, A.C., Gebhard, T., Hastings, J.J.A., Baydin, A.G., Warren-Rhodes, K., Phillips, M.S., Fricke, M., et al. (2022). "Molecular Complexity to Biosignatures: A Machine Learning Pipeline that Connects Mass Spectrometry to Molecular Synthesis and Reaction Networks." AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts. Abstract P25A-75.
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Planetary Mapping Using Deep Learning: A Method to Evaluate Feature Identification Confidence Applied to Habitats in Mars-Analog Terrain
Published in Astrobiology, 2023
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Cabrol, N.A., Candela, A., Wettergreen, D., Warren-Rhodes, K., Hinman, N.W., & SETI Institute NAI Team (2023). "Planetary Mapping Using Deep Learning: A Method to Evaluate Feature Identification Confidence Applied to Habitats in Mars-Analog Terrain." Astrobiology. 23(1), 76-93.
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Salt Constructs in Paleo-Lake Basins as High-Priority Astrobiology Targets
Published in Remote Sensing, 2023
Identification and characterization of salt constructs in ancient lake basins as priority targets for astrobiology investigations and biosignature preservation.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., McInenly, M., Hofmann, M.H., Hinman, N.W., Warren-Rhodes, K., Rivera-Valentín, E.G., & Cabrol, N.A. (2023). "Salt Constructs in Paleo-Lake Basins as High-Priority Astrobiology Targets." Remote Sensing. 15(2), 314.
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Correlating Aerial and Ground-Based Hyperspectral Data with Microbial Composition and Diversity in a Mars Analog Hydrothermal System in Iceland
Published in 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2023
Recommended citation: Basu, U.A., Schroedl, P., Phillips, M.S., Moersch, J.E., Warren, K., Maierhaba, Y., & Hamilton, C.W. (2023). "Correlating Aerial and Ground-Based Hyperspectral Data with Microbial Composition and Diversity in a Mars Analog Hydrothermal System in Iceland." 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1840.
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A Processing Pipeline for CRISM Hyperspectral Mapping Data
Published in 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2023
Development of automated processing pipeline for CRISM hyperspectral data to enable systematic analysis of Mars surface composition.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Murchie, S.L., Seelos, F.P., Hancock, K.M., Stephens, D.C., & Kawamura, M. (2023). "A Processing Pipeline for CRISM Hyperspectral Mapping Data." 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2260.
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Evaluating the Use of Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS) for Planetary Surface Exploration in Analog Terrain
Published in 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2023
Recommended citation: Shah, J., Carr, B.B., Hadland, N., Varnam, M., Voigt, J.R.C., Basu, U., Bj, B., Chen, C., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2023). "Evaluating the Use of Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS) for Planetary Surface Exploration in Analog Terrain." 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1732.
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Rover-Aerial Vehicle Exploration Network (RAVEN): Mission Planning, Implementation, and Results from the 2022 Rover-Only Field Campaign at Holuhraun, Iceland
Published in 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2023
Recommended citation: Gwizd, S., Stack, K.M., Calef, F., Francis, R., Tolometti, G., Graff, J., Langley, C., Kristinsson, Þ.H., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2023). "Rover-Aerial Vehicle Exploration Network (RAVEN): Mission Planning, Implementation, and Results from the 2022 Rover-Only Field Campaign at Holuhraun, Iceland." 54th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 1748.
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Orbit-to-ground framework to decode and predict biosignature patterns in terrestrial analogues
Published in Nature Astronomy, 2023
Multi-scale framework combining orbital remote sensing with ground observations to identify and predict biosignature patterns in Mars analog environments.
Recommended citation: Warren-Rhodes, K., Cabrol, N.A., Phillips, M.S., Tebes-Cayo, C., Kalaitzis, F., Ayma, D., Demergasso, C., Chong-Diaz, G., et al. (2023). "Orbit-to-ground framework to decode and predict biosignature patterns in terrestrial analogues." Nature Astronomy. 7, 406-422.
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Automated Vectorization of Spectral Parameter Raster Products
Published in 6th Planetary Data Workshop, 2023
Recommended citation: Cartwright, S.F.A., Seelos, F.P., Phillips, M.S., & Romeo, G.A. (2023). "Automated Vectorization of Spectral Parameter Raster Products." 6th Planetary Data Workshop. Abstract 7042.
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Gypsum-lined degassing holes in tumuli
Published in Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 2023
Study of gypsum formations in volcanic tumuli with implications for Mars analog environments and habitability.
Recommended citation: Hofmann, M.H., Hinman, N.W., Phillips, M.S., McInenly, M., Chong-Diaz, G., Warren-Rhodes, K., & Cabrol, N.A. (2023). "Gypsum-lined degassing holes in tumuli." Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. 48(15), 3220-3236.
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Using AI to Fine Tune the Search for Life
Published in 2nd Joint Symposium of Environmental Biogeochemistry and Subsurface Microbiology; ARPHA Conference Abstracts 6, 2023
Application of artificial intelligence techniques to improve biosignature detection and astrobiology research methodologies.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. (2023). "Using AI to Fine Tune the Search for Life." 2nd Joint Symposium of Environmental Biogeochemistry and Subsurface Microbiology; ARPHA Conference Abstracts 6. 6, e108253.
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Unraveling the context of unique basin-related alteration on early Mars
Published in 55th Annual Meeting of the Division for Planetary Sciences, 2023
Investigation of hydrothermal alteration processes associated with large impact basins on early Mars.
Recommended citation: Viviano, C., Phillips, M.S., Seelos, K., & Roberts, J. (2023). "Unraveling the context of unique basin-related alteration on early Mars." 55th Annual Meeting of the Division for Planetary Sciences. Abstract 300.06.
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Michael-S-Phillips/HyPyRameter: HyPyRameter v0.2.0
Published in Zenodo, 2024
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. & Tai Udovicic, C.J. (2024). "Michael-S-Phillips/HyPyRameter: HyPyRameter v0.2.0." Zenodo.
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A Prediction of the Inter-Annual Variability of Sulfur in Mercury’s Exosphere and Subsurface
Published in Europlanet Science Congress 2024, EPSC2024-664, 2024
Recommended citation: Verkercke, S., Chaufray, J.-Y., Leblanc, F., Morrissey, L., Phillips, M.S., & Munaretto, G. (2024). "A Prediction of the Inter-Annual Variability of Sulfur in Mercury's Exosphere and Subsurface." Europlanet Science Congress 2024, EPSC2024-664. EPSC2024-664.
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Pattern Recognition and Analysis in Planetary Contexts: Re-examining the Effects of Imaging Conditions and Environments on Spatial Metric Computations
Published in Astrobiology Science Conference 2024 (AbSciCon24), Providence, RI, abstract 212-04 (eLightning), 2024
Recommended citation: Gong, J., Warren-Rhodes, K., Garcia-Araya, J., Phillips, M.S., Hofmann, M.H., & Baydin, A.G. (2024). "Pattern Recognition and Analysis in Planetary Contexts: Re-examining the Effects of Imaging Conditions and Environments on Spatial Metric Computations." Astrobiology Science Conference 2024 (AbSciCon24), Providence, RI, abstract 212-04 (eLightning).
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Bottlenecks and Next Steps in the Integration of AI/ML into Astrobiology and the Search for Life Beyond Earth
Published in Astrobiology Science Conference 2024 (AbSciCon24), Providence, RI, abstract 202-03 (Oral), 2024
Analysis of current limitations and future directions for artificial intelligence applications in astrobiology research.
Recommended citation: Warren-Rhodes, K., Phillips, M.S., Gong, J., Hofmann, M.H., Walther-Antonio, M.R., & Cabrol, N.A. (2024). "Bottlenecks and Next Steps in the Integration of AI/ML into Astrobiology and the Search for Life Beyond Earth." Astrobiology Science Conference 2024 (AbSciCon24), Providence, RI, abstract 202-03 (Oral).
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New Views into Pre-Noachian Mars
Published in Tenth International Conference on Mars, 2024
Investigation of ancient Martian crustal composition and processes from the earliest period of Mars history.
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E. & Phillips, M.S. (2024). "New Views into Pre-Noachian Mars." Tenth International Conference on Mars. Abstract 3501.
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Interpreting Plagioclase Detections in Igneous Rock Spectra: Felsic Rocks and Plagioclase-Rich Basalts are Similar to Mars Detections
Published in Tenth International Conference on Mars, 2024
Spectroscopic analysis comparing terrestrial and Martian plagioclase detections in igneous rocks.
Recommended citation: Vannier, H., Horgan, B., Phillips, M.S., Eddy, M., & Greenberger, R. (2024). "Interpreting Plagioclase Detections in Igneous Rock Spectra: Felsic Rocks and Plagioclase-Rich Basalts are Similar to Mars Detections." Tenth International Conference on Mars. Abstract 3548.
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The Space Imagery Center at the University of Arizona’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory
Published in 55th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2024
Overview of the Space Imagery Center facilities and capabilities for planetary image processing and analysis.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. & Byrne, S. (2024). "The Space Imagery Center at the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory." 55th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2628.
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Spectral Cube Analysis Tool: A Python Program for Analyzing Multi- and Hyperspectral Images
Published in 55th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 2024
Development of Python software for processing and analyzing hyperspectral image cubes in planetary science.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. (2024). "Spectral Cube Analysis Tool: A Python Program for Analyzing Multi- and Hyperspectral Images." 55th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. Abstract 2637.
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A first look at CRISM hyperspectral mapping mosaicked data: Results from Mawrth Vallis
Published in Icarus, 2024
First comprehensive analysis of CRISM hyperspectral mapping data from Mawrth Vallis, Mars, revealing detailed mineralogical compositions.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Murchie, S.L., Seelos, F.P., Hancock, K.M., Selby, C., Poffenbarger, R.T., Stephens, D.C., & Kawamura, M. (2024). "A first look at CRISM hyperspectral mapping mosaicked data: Results from Mawrth Vallis." Icarus. 419, 115712.
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Comparing Rover and Helicopter Planetary Mission Architectures in a Mars Analog Setting in Iceland
Published in The Planetary Science Journal, 2024
Field study comparing rover and helicopter mission architectures for planetary exploration using Mars analog terrain in Iceland.
Recommended citation: Gwizd, S., Stack, K.M., Francis, R., Calef, F., Carr, B.B., Langley, C., Graff, J., Kristinsson, Þ.H., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2024). "Comparing Rover and Helicopter Planetary Mission Architectures in a Mars Analog Setting in Iceland." The Planetary Science Journal. 5(8), 172.
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HyPyRameter: A Python Toolbox to Calculate Spectral Parameters from Hyperspectral Reflectance Data
Published in The Planetary Science Journal, 2024
Comprehensive Python toolkit for calculating spectral parameters from hyperspectral data, designed for planetary science applications.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Tai Udovicic, C., Moersch, J.E., Basu, U., & Hamilton, C.W. (2024). "HyPyRameter: A Python Toolbox to Calculate Spectral Parameters from Hyperspectral Reflectance Data." The Planetary Science Journal. 5(11), 258.
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A novel theoretical approach to predict the interannual variability of sulfur in Mercury’s exosphere and subsurface
Published in Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences, 2025
Recommended citation: Verkercke, S., Chaufray, J.Y., Leblanc, F., Georgiou, A., Phillips, M.S., Munaretto, G., Lewis, J., Ricketts, A., & Morrissey, L. (2025). "A novel theoretical approach to predict the interannual variability of sulfur in Mercury’s exosphere and subsurface." Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences. 12, 1565830.
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Alteration of Pre-Noachian Mars
Published in 56th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1579 (LPI Contrib. 3090), 2025
Recommended citation: Viviano, C.E. & Phillips, M.S. (2025). "Alteration of Pre-Noachian Mars." 56th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1579 (LPI Contrib. 3090).
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Mars Analog Field Testing Reveals Key Operational Strategies for Planetary Exploration Using Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Published in AGU Fall Meeting 2025, abstract P21C-265, 2025
Recommended citation: Hamilton, C.W., Carr, B.B., Varnam, M., Hadland, N., Shah, J., Voigt, J., Gwizd, S., Stack, K., …, Phillips, M.S., et al. (2025). "Mars Analog Field Testing Reveals Key Operational Strategies for Planetary Exploration Using Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS)." AGU Fall Meeting 2025, abstract P21C-265.
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Plagioclase-Rich Crust on Mars Revealed in Argyre Basin Massifs
Published in 56th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1653, 2025
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S. & Viviano, C.E. (2025). "Plagioclase-Rich Crust on Mars Revealed in Argyre Basin Massifs." 56th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1653.
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SaganMC: A molecular complexity dataset with mass spectra
Published in University of Oxford Research Archive (ORA) dataset; also on Hugging Face (oxai4science/sagan-mc, DOI 10.57967/hf/5637), 2025
Recommended citation: Baydin, A.G., Bell, A., Gebhard, T., Gong, J., Hastings, J., Fricke, M., Phillips, M.S., Warren-Rhodes, K., et al. (2025). "SaganMC: A molecular complexity dataset with mass spectra." University of Oxford Research Archive (ORA) dataset; also on Hugging Face (oxai4science/sagan-mc, DOI 10.57967/hf/5637).
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Widespread ancient anorthosites in the lower crust of Mars
Published in Communications Earth & Environment, 2025
Discovery of widespread ancient anorthosite in Mars' lower crust, providing new insights into early planetary differentiation and crustal evolution.
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Viviano, C.E., Rogers, A.D., Larson, L., Tornabene, L., Trowbridge, A., Moersch, J.E., & McSween Jr, H.Y. (2025). "Widespread ancient anorthosites in the lower crust of Mars." Communications Earth & Environment. 6, 1026.
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Mercury’s Hollows: A Potential Signature of Sulfur Exosphere-Subsurface Transport
Published in Geophysical Research Letters, 2025
Recommended citation: Verkercke, S., Leblanc, F., Chaufray, J.-Y., Phillips, M.S., Munaretto, G., Caminiti, E., & Morrissey, L. (2025). "Mercury's Hollows: A Potential Signature of Sulfur Exosphere-Subsurface Transport." Geophysical Research Letters. 52(24), e2025GL118112.
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CraterBench-R: Instance-Level Crater Retrieval for Planetary Scale
Published in arXiv:2604.06245; accepted at EarthVision 2026 Workshop, CVPR 2026 (CVPRW), 2026
Recommended citation: Fang, J., Zhang, L., Phillips, M.S., & Luo, W. (2026). "CraterBench-R: Instance-Level Crater Retrieval for Planetary Scale." arXiv:2604.06245; accepted at EarthVision 2026 Workshop, CVPR 2026 (CVPRW).
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Diversity, Distribution, and Petrogenesis of Spectrally Feldspathic Outcrops on Mars
Published in 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1828, 2026
Recommended citation: Phillips, M.S., Cartwright, S.F.A., Viviano, C.E., Seelos, F.P., Rogers, A.D., Tornabene, L.L., Hancock, K., & Kinczyk, M. (2026). "Diversity, Distribution, and Petrogenesis of Spectrally Feldspathic Outcrops on Mars." 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1828.
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Visualization and Analysis of Raster Data with an Open-Source Python GUI
Published in 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1972 (LPI Contrib. 3160), 2026
Recommended citation: Oved, J.R. & Phillips, M.S. (2026). "Visualization and Analysis of Raster Data with an Open-Source Python GUI." 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, abstract #1972 (LPI Contrib. 3160).
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A Domain-Specific Vision Foundation Model for Mars: Self-Supervised Learning for Planetary-Scale Science Discovery
Published in Journal of Geophysical Research: Machine Learning and Computation, 2026
Recommended citation: Fang, J., Luo, W., Huang, Q., Zhang, L., Phillips, M.S., Seethi, V.D.R., & Giannakis, I. (2026). "A Domain-Specific Vision Foundation Model for Mars: Self-Supervised Learning for Planetary-Scale Science Discovery." Journal of Geophysical Research: Machine Learning and Computation. 3, e2025JH000827.
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Proposed identification criteria of the Martian lower crust and mantle excavated by the Isidis impact
Published in Communications Earth & Environment, 2026
Recommended citation: Trowbridge, A.J., Horgan, B., Weiss, B.P., & Phillips, M.S. (2026). "Proposed identification criteria of the Martian lower crust and mantle excavated by the Isidis impact." Communications Earth & Environment. 7(1), 714.
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Visible to Near-Infrared Properties of Felsic Rocks: Plagioclase Detection Limits and Applications to Mars Orbital Spectra
Published in Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets, 2026
Recommended citation: Vannier, H., Horgan, B.H.N., Phillips, M.S., Eddy, M., Greenberger, R., & Udry, A. (2026). "Visible to Near-Infrared Properties of Felsic Rocks: Plagioclase Detection Limits and Applications to Mars Orbital Spectra." Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets. 131(9), e2026JE009705.
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talks
Plagioclase in Primary Mineralogy of Ancient Crust, Northern Hellas, Mars
Published:
Spectroscopic detection and analysis of plagioclase in ancient crustal rocks of northern Hellas region on Mars.
What is that? Identification confidence of Mars analog habitats with Deep Learning
Published:
Deep learning approach to automated identification and classification of Mars analog habitats with confidence metrics.
Mars uplifted massifs: unique and extensive samples of ancient crust
Published:
Analysis of uplifted massifs on Mars as windows into ancient crustal composition and early planetary processes.
teaching
GEOS PTYS 551: Planetary Remote Sensing
Graduate course, University of Arizona, Lunar & Planetary Laboratory, 2024
Graduate course on orbital remote sensing instruments, data processing, and applications to understanding planetary geology and composition.
PTYS 595B: AI and ML Techniques in Planetary Science
Graduate seminar, University of Arizona, Lunar & Planetary Laboratory, 2025
Graduate seminar on applying machine learning and deep learning techniques to solve real problems in planetary science and planetary exploration.
GEOS PTYS 411: Planetary Surface Processes
Upper-level undergraduate course, University of Arizona, Lunar & Planetary Laboratory, 2026
Upper-level undergraduate course examining the physical and chemical processes that shape planetary surfaces across our solar system.




