NASA is conducting a series of simulated Mars missions called CHAPEA (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog) and is looking for participants to live in a 1,700-square-foot Mars simulation for a full year.
The Mars Dune Alpha simulation, located at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, replicates a future Mars habitat with living and working areas. Four volunteers will live in the habitat, experiencing limited resources, simulated space walks, maintenance tasks, crop growth, and working with robotics.
The goal of these simulations is to help NASA prepare for human exploration of Mars by studying how individuals cope with the challenges of living and working on the Red Planet.
NASA Officials (Credits: CBS News)
The second CHAPEA mission is set to begin in Spring 2025, and NASA is actively seeking motivated U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 30 to 55 with STEM backgrounds, including master’s degrees in engineering, math, biology, or related fields, or relevant professional experience.
Applicants should have a strong desire for unique and rewarding adventures and a commitment to contributing to NASA’s preparations for the first human journey to Mars.
English proficiency, non-smoking status, and specific qualifications related to STEM or piloting experience are also required. Volunteers may be compensated for their participation in the mission.
NASA is leveraging these simulations to learn about crew health and performance during Mars explorations, and similar missions are planned for lunar exploration under the Artemis program.
While NASA has sent devices and rovers to Mars, humans have not yet landed on the Red Planet, making these simulations crucial for understanding the challenges and requirements of future manned missions.
