Dr. Gruesbeck primary research focus is on the nature of the interaction of the solar wind and transient events on the magnetospheres of solar system bodies. Using MAVEN observations, Dr. Gruesbeck has developed a 3-dimensional representation of the bow shock of Mars. This surface is able to show its non-asymmetric shape resulting from the presence of strong localized crustal fields on the surface of Mars. In addition, Dr. Gruesbeck has an interest in the calibration and validation of magnetometer data to help provide the community with accurate data.
Dr. Gruesbeck received his PhD from the University of Michigan where he investigated the coronal mass ejection plasma using observations of their ionic charge state composition. There he developed a model that connected the near corona temperature profile to the composition of observed ejecta plasma. While at Michigan he also earned a Masters of Engineering in space systems engineering.