NASA is accepting applications for a simulated Mars mission, the second in a series of three under the Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (CHAPEA) program. The mission will start in spring 2025 and will involve a four-person crew living in a 3D-printed habitat, the Mars Dune Alpha, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. The habitat is designed to simulate the conditions of a Mars mission, including resource limitations and communication delays.
The crew will perform simulated spacewalks, robotic operations, and habitat maintenance. They will also exercise and grow crops. NASA is looking for healthy, motivated U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 30-55 years who are non-smokers and proficient in English. The application deadline is April 2.
Applicants must also meet NASA’s standard criteria for astronaut candidates. This includes a master’s degree in a STEM field and at least two years of professional STEM experience or a minimum of one thousand hours piloting an aircraft. Other qualifications, such as a medical degree or military officer training, may also be considered.