I am a planetary scientist working with space missions and ground based observations of Solar System objects. I am currently based at the DLR Institute of Space Research in Berlin, Germany (Curriculum vitae).

My research focuses on the evolution of asteroid and comets, through studies of their surface properties and activity. These objects are remnants from the early age of our Solar System, the bricks that form planets, and perhaps the source of water and organic material on our Earth.

Observations only give us access to their current surface, which has been heavily processed for billions of years. Understanding this evolution and the physical processes responsible is the key to decipher the formation and evolution of the Solar System.

I am Co-Investigator of several space missions: Rosetta, Dawn, MASCOT, DART, Hera, RAMSES, MMX, Comet Interceptor, with direct access to in-situ observations of asteroids and comets.

I contribute to the leadership of several projects:

• "Near Environment" working group lead for Comet Interceptor (ESA)
• "Data Analysis" working group lead for Hera (ESA), PI of the Asteroid Framing Cameras for this mission
• Member of RAMSES (ESA) Management Board, also PI of the Asteroid Framing Cameras for this mission

My work has led to new ideas on cometary activity, comet and asteroids surface evolution, crater morphology and physical properties of the regolith (publications).

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) named asteroid (34846) Vincent in recognition of my accomplishments.

Dust jets of comet 67P
(© ESA/Rosetta/OSIRIS)

Asteroid (21)Lutetia
(© ESA/Rosetta/OSIRIS)

Contact

Dr. Jean-Baptiste Vincent
mail: jean-baptiste.vincent[at]dlr.de
mail: jb.vincent[at]comet-toolbox.com
bsky: @comet-toolbox.com