Space_Ready Analog Mission (call for applications)

Six people wearing blue jumpsuits float in a zero-gravity simulation inside a metallic room.

02/10/2026

Become an analog astronaut and embark on an amazing adventure! We are excited to invite applications for Space_Ready, a pioneering analog space mission programme focused on human spaceflight education and research. It will consist of an e-learning course followed by a practical internship at the Analog Astronaut Training Center (AATC) located near Krakow.

Analog missions are simulated space missions conducted on Earth in environments that resemble space or planetary conditions, such as isolation, extreme climates, or limited resources. They are used to test technologies, procedures, and human behavior to better prepare for real space missions.

Participation

Send your resume and cover letter to: akolodziejczyk(at)agh.edu.pl by 23 February 2026.
For more information along with the application form, see the Space_Ready brochure.

Programme Overview

The Space_Ready programme consists of a 7-day isolation and confinement mission, complemented by pre- and post-mission activities, forming a 9-day total engagement. A total of 24 participants will be selected and assigned to four analog missions, each composed of a six-person crew. During the mission, participants will follow a structured daily routine reflecting astronaut life, including:

Team-based operational activities
Scientific research and data collection
Simulation of lunar base workflows
Monitoring and interaction with life support systems
Medical, psychological, and operational assessments

The study aims to advance knowledge related to human performance, crew health, psychological adaptation, and operational support systems required for long-duration space missions, with particular emphasis on life support systems.

Eligibility Criteria Core Requirements

Age: 20–55 years
Physical health: Ability to pass a comprehensive medical screening
High level of physical fitness
Language proficiency: English at minimum B2 level
Educational minimal background: student

Preferred fields of expertise include:

Medicine
Software engineering
Technology and engineering
Other relevant scientific or technical disciplines

Medical and Psychological Requirements

Nutritional flexibility: Ability to follow the mission diet
Valid medical insurance
Criminal record clearance (a certificate from the National Criminal Register/Certificates of Good Character)
Signed informed consent forms

Schedule and Time Commitment

Day -1: Arrival, pre-training, baseline data collection
Days 1–7: Isolation and confinement phase inside the habitat
Day +1: Mission egress, final reports and debriefings

Available time slots

2 to 10 May 2026 – Space_Ready_1
16 to 24 May 2026 – Space_Ready_2
30 May to 7 Jun 2026 – Space_Ready_3
22 to 30 August 2026 – Space_Ready _4

Logistics

Location: Habitat near Krakow, Poland
Participants are required to arrive to the AGH University in Krakow, building D3.
All local transportation will be provided by the organisers.

Funding

The internship is funded through the Erasmus+ programme.

Academic and Professional Value

Participation in Space_Ready offers:

Practical internship in human spaceflight simulation
Contribution to research supporting future lunar and Martian missions
Development of teamwork, leadership, and autonomous decision-making skills
Academic recognition in the form of 3 ECTS credits

Participation