Live in Hawaii. Pretend it’s Mars. Eat space food. Get paid.

Cornell is offering the opportunity of a lifetime for an astronaut fan:

We are seeking participants for a 120 day Mars exploration analogue mission (Hawaii Space Exploration Analogue & Simulation, or HI-SEAS), to take place in early 2013 on the Big Island of Hawaii. DEADLINE: FEB 29 2012.

Crew Selection

We are seeking participants for this study with qualifications similar to those required by NASA for their astronaut applicants, as follows:
Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, in engineering, biological or physical sciences, mathematics, or computer science.
  • Professional experience (including graduate school) of at least three years beyond the bachelor’s degree
  • Ability to pass a class 2 flight physical examination
  • No history of upper airway surgery, rhinoplasty, chronic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis
  • No other medical or psychological condition that would preclude participation in this study
  • Willingness and ability to eat a wide range of foods
  • Normal sense of taste and smell
  • Tobacco-free for at least 24 months
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct field research
  • Strong interest in human space exploration
  • Fluency in verbal and written English
  • Availability and willingness to take time to participate in the workshop and the two analogue missions

Desirable:

  • Experience in a complex operational system, e.g. submarine, ambulance, airplane cockpit, control room
  • Background in medicine or nursing at the “first responder” level or higher
  • Ability to lift 15 kg and to cover 100 m on foot in 40 seconds or less
  • Experience in construction, electronics, or home repair
  • Body mass index between 19 and 25.
  • Not pregnant or lactating during 2012 and 2013
  • Household cooking experience
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Age between 21 and 65

They’re offering $5,000 plus expenses. And, of course, meals.

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