Brandon Johnson

Brandon Johnson is a Professor in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University. His primary research focuses on impact cratering, a fundamental geologic process shaping planetary surfaces across the solar system. He uses numerical hydrocode models to simulate large basin formations and investigates processes like impact jetting, melt droplet formation, and the origin of chondrules. His work also addresses lunar gravity field analysis, long-runout landslide dynamics, and planetary surface modification mechanisms.

Education:

• PhD in Physics, Purdue University (2013)
• BS in Physics, Michigan Technological University (2009)

Research spans impact cratering mechanics, planetary geophysics, and solar system dynamics. Key interests include:

• Planetary surface evolution via impacts
• Lunar mascon basin formation
• Friction reduction in landslides
• Early solar system meteorite dynamics
• Comet fragmentation mechanics

Recent publications emphasize lunar geology (e.g., Orientale Basin formation) and comparative planetology. His work has been recognized with major awards including the 2018 Ronald Greeley Early Career Award in Planetary Science (AGU).

Grants and funding support his experimental and computational research. Ongoing projects involve GRAIL mission data analysis and simulations of impact processes on diverse celestial bodies.