How good is Michael Drake?

Michael Drake has a Lunoo score of 7.8/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

Is Michael Drake worth it in 2026?

Michael Drake scores 7.8/10 in the Geologist category on Lunoo. Compare it with alternatives to find the best fit for your needs.

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Michael Drake

7.75

Good

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Geologist American 20th Century Historical Planetary Science Cosmochemistry

description Michael Drake Overview

Michael Drake (1946–2011) was an American planetary scientist and cosmochemist who served as the director of the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory. His research focused on the origin of the solar system, the early accretion of terrestrial planets, and the geochemical evolution of the moon. He was also the original principal investigator for the OSIRIS-REx mission, an asteroid sample-return project, though he passed away before its launch. His leadership significantly advanced the university's reputation in planetary science.

insights Ranking position

Michael Drake ranks #265 of 379 in the Geologist ranking, behind Josiah Dwight Whitney, ahead of Jean-Bernard Caron.

help Michael Drake FAQ

What laboratory did Michael Drake direct at the University of Arizona?

Michael Drake served as the director of the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL), one of the premier institutions for planetary science research. He led LPL until his death in 2011.

What was Michael Drake's role in the OSIRIS-REx mission?

Drake was the original principal investigator of the OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample-return mission before his death in 2011. After his passing, Dante Lauretta succeeded him as PI, and the mission successfully launched in 2016 and returned samples from asteroid Bennu in 2023.

What was Michael Drake's research focus in planetary science?

Drake's research focused on the origin of the solar system and the early geochemical accretion of terrestrial planets. His work combined cosmochemistry with experimental approaches to understand how rocky bodies like Earth and Mars formed from the primordial solar nebula.

When did Michael Drake pass away?

Michael Drake passed away in 2011. His legacy includes not only his geochemical research but also his leadership of the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory and his foundational role in initiating the OSIRIS-REx mission.

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