NASA has opened applications for its upcoming CHAPEA 2 mission, a year-long simulation to mimic the challenges that crews may encounter on future Mars expeditions. The mission, set to begin in spring 2025, will involve four volunteer crewmembers living and working inside a 1,700-square-foot 3D-printed habitat at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

The first CHAPEA crew, currently on a year-long mission that started on June 25, 2023, is more than halfway through their simulation, scheduled to end on July 6, 2024. NASA is now seeking healthy, motivated U.S. citizens or permanent residents, aged 30-55, proficient in English, and non-smokers to join the CHAPEA 2 mission.

During the mission, crewmembers will engage in tasks like robotic operations, habitat maintenance, crop growth, simulated spacewalks, and exercise. The Mars Dune Alpha habitat is designed to emulate conditions that may be faced on Mars, including resource limitations, equipment failures, communication delays, and environmental stressors.

The habitat layout includes crew quarters, a lavatory, shower area, produce production section, kitchen, recreation area, work area, fitness and laundry rooms, robotics control stations, and a medical bay. The mission aims to gather valuable scientific data to validate systems and develop solutions for future missions to Mars, as NASA continues its efforts to establish a long-term presence on the moon through the Artemis campaign.

Applications for the CHAPEA 2 mission are open to the public until April 2, 2024. Those interested in contributing to NASA's preparations for the first human journey to Mars are encouraged to apply for this unique and rewarding adventure.