Eyouel Abate L&S Math & Physical Sciences
Identifying Mars-Shine in MAVEN SEP Particle Observations
On Earth, sunlight reflected from our planet softly illuminates the Moon’s dark side, a phenomenon known as Earthshine. My project explores whether a similar effect occurs at Mars, where reflected sunlight from the planet may create a subtle hidden signal in data from NASA’s MAVEN spacecraft—a phenomenon I refer to as “Mars-shine.” The MAVEN Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) instrument was originally designed to detect high-energy electrons and protons produced by solar activity, yet its measurements also contain unexplained background signals. I will investigate whether some of this signal changes systematically with the brightness of the Martian surface below the spacecraft. To test this idea, I will compare SEP observations with spacecraft position, orbital viewing geometry, and maps of Mars’ surface reflectivity (albedo). If a clear correlation is found, this work will improve interpretation of MAVEN particle data, strengthen future analyses of energetic particle measurements, and reveal how planetary reflection can influence spacecraft detectors. More broadly, the project shows how unexpected patterns in mission data can become valuable opportunities for scientific discovery.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you so much for supporting my undergraduate research and making opportunities like this possible. Your generosity means a great deal to me, as it allows me to work directly with real NASA mission data and pursue a project I am genuinely excited about. Through your support, I can grow as a researcher, deepen my skills, and contribute to planetary science at the remarkable institution that is UC Berkeley. I am truly grateful for your belief in students like me and for investing in my future.