NASA Is Looking For Volunteers For A One-year Mars Simulation Mission
NASA is looking for volunteers for a one-year Mars simulation mission. NASA's Mars surface mission is aimed at gathering vital insights for future human exploration of the Red Planet.
Author:Rhyley CarneyReviewer:Paula M. GrahamFeb 18, 20246.9K Shares131.1K Views
NASA is looking for volunteers for a one-year Mars simulation mission. NASA's Mars surface mission is aimed at gathering vital insights for future human exploration of the Red Planet. The mission, known as CHAPEA (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog), marks the second installment in a series of three ground-based simulations, slated to commence in spring 2025.
In this endeavor, a team of four volunteers will inhabit the Mars Dune Alpha, a specially crafted 3D-printed habitat stationed at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Designed to mimic the rigors of a Martian mission, the habitat presents participants with challenges like resource constraints, equipment malfunctions, communication lags, and other environmental stressors. Crew duties encompass a range of activities, including simulated spacewalks, robotic operations, habitat upkeep, exercise regimens, and cultivation of crops.
NASA seeks individuals who are in good health, aged between 30 and 55, and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents proficient in English, crucial for seamless communication among crew members and with mission control. Prospective applicants should possess a strong passion for extraordinary adventures and a keen interest in contributing to NASA's mission to prepare for humanity's inaugural voyage to Mars. The application deadline is set for Tuesday, April 2.
Crew selection will adhere to standard NASA criteria for astronaut candidates. Candidates must hold a master’s degree in a STEM field such as engineering, mathematics, biological, physical, or computer science from an accredited institution. Additionally, they should have at least two years of professional STEM experience or a minimum of one thousand hours of piloting aircraft.
Alternatively, individuals who have completed two years of a doctoral program in STEM, obtained a medical degree, or graduated from a test pilot program will also be considered. Applicants with four years of professional experience, completion of military officer training, or a bachelor of science degree in a STEM field may also be eligible. Compensation will be provided for participants in the mission, with further details available during the candidate screening process.
As NASA progresses with its Artemis campaign to establish a sustained presence for scientific exploration on the Moon, CHAPEA missions play a crucial role in gathering scientific data to validate systems and develop solutions for future missions to Mars. Leveraging insights gained from ongoing simulated missions, NASA aims to enhance crew health and performance support for future Mars expeditions.
Under the Artemis campaign, NASA is committed to laying the groundwork for long-term scientific exploration on the Moon. This initiative includes landing the first woman, first person of color, and the first international partner astronaut on the lunar surface, in addition to preparing for human expeditions to Mars, benefiting humanity as a whole.
Rhyley Carney
Author
Paula M. Graham
Reviewer
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