Exploring Antarctica (Just Like Mars, Only Closer!)

NASA Scientist Dr. Chris McKay will discuss his research in Antarctica and its connections to Mars' environment. How does this prepare us for human exploration of Mars? What can we learn from simulated exploration that brings us closer to reaching Mars? What is the current status of Mars exploration projects at NASA? Dr. McKay will discuss this and more!

Dr. Chris McKay, Planetary Scientist with the Space Science Division at NASA Ames, is actively involved in planning for future Mars missions, including human exploration. His work includes polar and desert research, traveling to the Antarctic Dry Valleys, the Atacama Desert, the Arctic, and the Namib Desert to conduct research in these Mars-like environments. He is regarded as one of the world's top Astrobiologists and Mars Experts.