NASA is currently accepting applications for individuals interested in participating in a year-long simulated mission on Mars. This unique opportunity is open to US citizens or permanent residents between the ages of 30 and 55 who are non-smokers and hold a Master's degree in STEM, have two years of professional experience, or have accumulated 1000 hours of piloting an aircraft.
If selected, participants will become part of a four-person crew living and working in a 1700 square foot 3D printed space that simulates conditions on Mars. Communication with Earth will be subject to delays to mimic the communication lag experienced on Mars, adding to the challenge of the mission.
The crew will engage in various activities during the simulation, including simulated spacewalks, robotic operations, habitat maintenance, cleaning tasks, exercise routines, and crop growth monitoring. These tasks will require the crew to work closely together in the confined space, testing their ability to cooperate and function effectively as a team.
The primary focus of the mission is to study the psychological aspects of long-duration space travel and isolation. By observing how individuals interact and cope with the challenges of living in a confined and isolated environment, NASA aims to gather valuable insights that will inform future space missions, particularly those involving extended stays on Mars or other planets.
This simulation presents a unique opportunity for individuals to experience the physical and psychological demands of a Mars mission firsthand, providing valuable data for future space exploration endeavors. The success of this mission will depend not only on the technical skills of the participants but also on their ability to work together harmoniously in a challenging and isolated setting.
