NASA is seeking four people to join its year-long mission in a Mars simulator as part of its research for human exploration of the planet.
Driving the news: The agency is currently conducting the first of three planned CHAPEA missions and is now accepting applications for the next cohort.
- Participants will live and work in a 3D-printed, 1,700-square-foot facility called the Mars Dune Alpha at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
- The mission will involve experiencing challenges similar to life on Mars, such as resource limitations, equipment failures, communication delays, and environmental stressors.
- Activities will include spacewalks, robot operation, exercise, crop cultivation, and facility maintenance.
Requirements: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, aged between 30 and 55, nonsmokers, and proficient in English.
- NASA is primarily seeking candidates with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) experience, including bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields or professional experience in STEM.
- Medical professionals and those with a test pilot program background also have an opportunity to apply.
- Specific details about pay will be discussed during the screening process.
