Pranabendu Moitra

Pranabendu Moitra is an Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona, leading the Moitra Lab. His research focuses on planetary volcanism, magma ocean crystallization, and explosive eruption dynamics across Earth, the Moon, and Mars. He employs experimental petrology, textural analysis, and rheometric modeling to study volatile interactions in magmatic systems.

• Research Themes:
  • Planetary volatile evolution (H2O, COH degassing)
  • Crystal-rich magma dynamics
  • Explosive eruption mechanisms via bubble growth and permeability
  • Comparative volcanism across the Solar System
• Recent Article Trends:
  • 2023–2025 work emphasizes lunar magma ocean water budgeting, Martian explosive eruptions, and magma-water interaction rheology
  • Methodologies include textural analysis of lunar glass beads, pMELTS modeling of Elysium Province, and capillary breakup experiments
  • Key collaborations span planetary geology and volcanic risk modeling
• Labs & Teams:
  • Moitra Lab at University of Arizona
  • Collaborative projects on Martian volcanic provinces and submarine eruptions