Portrait of Stephen Scheidt

Stephen Scheidt

Visiting Associate Research Scientist

571 458 0133
scheidt@umd.edu University Of Maryland College Park

I'm a geologist and remote sensing expert whose research focuses on planetary surface evolution and supports exploration efforts across our Solar System. I've primarily worked on NASA-funded projects in collaboration with multi-institutional teams. I investigate landscape development, surface processes, geomorphology, the habitability potential of Mars, and mission-critical needs for the Moon, such as landing site evaluation and surface navigation. My planetary science background is rooted in mapping, geospatial analysis, and the production of digital terrain models from a range of sources. I specialize in integrating planetary remote sensing with field-based surveys at domestic and international planetary analog sites. Field activities emphasize high-precision GPS-based surveying and systematic photo documentation, particularly for generating 3D reconstructions of geologic features. I leverage expertise in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), photogrammetry, and thermal infrared spectroscopy to support surface composition studies and geomorphic interpretation. By combining these methods, I aim to create functional terrain products that serve both scientific investigations and operational planning for future planetary missions.

Research Areas:
Solar System

Latest Papers

Integrated Seismic Refraction, Reflection, and Rayleigh Wave Imaging at Kilbourne Hole, New Mexico: Implications for Lunar Subsurface Exploration

| Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets
Author(s): Jingchuan Wang, Nicholas C. Schmerr, Ernest R. Bell, Jr., et. al
UMD Author(s): Patrick Liam Whelley, Stephen Scheidt


Improving quantitative ventifact analysis for climate investigations using the Dyngjusandur sandsheet in Iceland as a planetary analogue

| Journal of the Geological Society
Author(s): Samuel X. Hudziak, Ingrid Ukstins, David Peate, et. al
UMD Author(s): Patrick Liam Whelley, Stephen Scheidt


Mapping Fluvial Valleys on the Flanks of Alba Mons: Implications for Amazonian Watershed Development in Northern Tharsis, Mars

| Earth and Space Science
Author(s): Stephen P. Scheidt, David A. Crown, Daniel C. Berman
UMD Author(s): Stephen Scheidt


Valley networks and watershed reconstruction data for Alba Mons, Mars


Author(s): Stephen Scheidt, David Crown, Daniel Berman
UMD Author(s): Stephen Scheidt


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