Anmol Sikka

I am a planetary scientist and aerospace engineer specializing in granular mechanics and computational modeling of asteroid surfaces. I recently completed my PhD in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Maryland (March 2026), where my dissertation focused on the role of magnetic cohesion in asteroid regolith using the Discrete Element Method (DEM) and LIGGGHTS—an open-source computational framework. This research directly supports scientific objectives for upcoming missions like NASA’s Psyche and future exploration of metallic asteroids.

Before diving deep into planetary dust, I earned my undergraduate and master’s degrees at IIT Bombay, where I served as Project Manager and Systems Engineer for the Student Satellite Program. During my time there, I gained critical hands-on experience with space hardware during the integration, environmental testing, and flight-qualification of Pratham, IIT Bombay’s first small satellite launched into low Earth orbit.

My work sits at the intersection of granular physics, computational modeling, and space exploration. Having worked on physical satellite hardware and complex computational frameworks, I translate microgravity granular physics into actionable mission-design constraints and instrument requirements—bridging the gap between spacecraft design and surface reality. I am actively seeking postdoctoral positions in planetary surface processes, sample-collection mechanics, or advanced DEM modeling for upcoming small-body missions. Feel free to reach out if my background fits your group’s needs.

When I’m not running simulations or wrangling Python and C++ scripts, you can find me cooking intricate meals from scratch (think homemade pizza or hand-folded dumplings), writing op-eds on the Indian Space Ecosystem on my blog, building heavily optimized production lines in games like Factorio, or lifting weights in the gym.

Research Interests

Science Communication & Education

Beyond my primary research, I’m passionate about making space science and engineering accessible to a broad audience. I write regularly on my blog, Anecdotes of an Aerospace Nerd, where I share insights on the Indian space ecosystem, space missions, and planetary science. I also contributed to the Satellite 101 Wiki, an open-access educational resource designed to introduce students and enthusiasts to satellite technology fundamentals. Both initiatives reflect my commitment to science communication and mentoring the next generation of aerospace engineers.