What is the program about?
The program involves participation in an internship at the Analog Astronaut Training Center (AATC) habitat facility located near Kraków, Poland.
The NAWA UNIVERSEH OPEN program consists of a 7-day isolation and confinement mission, complemented by pre- and post-mission activities, forming a 9-day total engagement.
Participants will work in six-person crews and 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.
Who can apply?
Core requirements:
- Age: 20–55 years
- Physical health: Ability to pass a comprehensive medical screening
- Body Mass Index (BMI): 18–30 kg/m2
- Language proficiency: English at minimum B2 level
- Educational minimal background: student
Preferred fields of expertise:
- Medicine
- Software engineering
- Technology and engineering
- Other relevant scientific or technical disciplines
Additional requirements:
- Nutritional flexibility (ability to follow the mission diet)
- Valid medical insurance
- Police Clearance Certificate (Certificate of Good Conduct / Criminal Background Check)
- Signed informed consent forms
Mission schedule
Participants will be assigned to one of the following missions:
- 16–24 May 2026 – NAWA_1
- 30 May – 7 June 2026 – NAWA_2
- 27 June – 5 July 2026 – NAWA_3
- 23–31 July 2026 – NAWA_4
- 10–18 August 2026 – NAWA_5
- 22–30 August 2026 – NAWA_6
- 5–13 September 2026 – UNIVERSEH OPEN_NAWA_7
Logistics and funding
- Location: AATC habitat facility near Kraków, Poland
- Start: AGH University of Kraków, D3 building (2nd floor)
- Local transportation is provided by the organizers
- Participation is funded through the NAWA UNIVERSEH OPEN programme (for eligible participants from Poland and UNIVERSEH partner institutions)
What will you gain?
- Practical internship in human spaceflight simulation
- Contribution to research supporting future lunar and Martian missions
- Development of teamwork, leadership, and autonomous decision-making skills
How to apply?
Please send to Dr Agata Harasymczuk.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Signed consent form (available here)
📅 Application deadline: 4 May 2026, 23:59 CET
For any questions, please contact Dr Agata Harasymczuk (formerly: Kołodziejczyk).