Mission Campaign 2026
2026 seems to be exciting at LunAres! At the beginning of the year we offer you standard missions. Pick the mission that suits you the best and join our LunAres Community, with over 240 analog astronauts!
Check the description below the calendar to see what the standard mission simulation is.
We have been running standard missions since 2021, gaining valuable experience in designing and executing them. Over the years, we have continuously improved and refined the program, making the 2026 standard missions more advanced and complex. They provide participants with a well-structured and immersive space mission simulation, ensuring a unique and meaningful experience.
You will receive more information after the application and interview. We will contact you up to three weeks after your application.
Mission Calendar 2026
Mission Dates 2026
M1.26
M2.26
M3.26
M4.26
M5.26
M6.26
Analog Mission Simulations Description
LunAres Standard Mission – 18-Day Expedition
Whole project duration: 18 days
3 days Preflight – training, orientation, and preparation
14 days Isolated Mission – full simulation in a confined environment
1 day Postflight – debriefing and evaluation
Cost per Analog Astronaut:
€2600 (standard)
€2100 (students)
Number of Participants: 5–8
About the Mission
LunAres Analog Mission Simulations are among the leading commercially available programs in the analog market, designed to combine high-fidelity simulation with valuable data collection.
The 18-day standard expedition offers a unique balance between immersive mission scenarios, guided by our experienced Mission Control, and scientific investigations conducted by external research teams.
During the 14 days of full isolation, analog astronauts live and work inside the habitat, managing operations with only minimal contact with the outside world. This creates an authentic and challenging environment that mirrors aspects of future human space missions.
Additional Information
After the preflight phase, the Mission Control Team leaves Piła.
Participants stay inside the LunAres habitat for the entire duration of the program.
Accommodation in the habitat is provided throughout.
Learn more about what it means to be an analog astronaut in our [Candidate Kit].
If you are interested in conducting research during the expedition, visit our [Research] section.
Who Is This For?
Industry Professionals
Young Professionals
Researchers
Students (21+)
Aspiring Future Astronauts
If you would like to receive updates regarding our campaign – stay in touch with us! Leave your email and we will notify you when we share the details on our website.
Participation requirements
Minimal requirements:
Age: 21–65 years
Proficiency in English – near fluent
At least bachelor’s degree with experience
Important Skills and Experience:
Motivation
Academic research experience
Teamwork
Technical troubleshooting
Problem-solving
Stress management
Physical fitness
Operational knowledge
Adaptability and resilience
Participation offer and costs:
Participation in a mission costs 2600 Euro.
Student discount:
Students below 25 years old can apply for a special offer – 2100 Euro for mission and research participation. The discount is available to young engineers, researchers, and scientists who can conduct a research project during a mission, using the station’s infrastructure and mission conditions.
You can find more information about the mission logistics in the LunAres Candidate Kit.
Disclaimer
MISSIONS:
Isolation missions are 18 days long (3 days of pre-flight, 14 days of isolation, 1 day of post-flight).
Participation costs 2600 Euro per crew member (check the student discount offer).
You may be asked to change your diet habits for the mission – your diet will be consulted with you.
We do not select people with any kind of phobias (i.e., claustrophobia, etc.).
LunAres is not responsible for flights or travel logistics and related expenses. Participants are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance that covers cancellations or date changes.
VISA:
The visa should be granted at least 45 days before the mission.
Important: Participants who require a visa to enter Poland must check and inform us about the visa process timeline and expected waiting time before attending the LunAres interview. Please contact the Polish Embassy in your country for all necessary details.
More information about visas can be found here:
RESEARCH:
All research conducted on crews must first be accepted by our partner’s bioethics committee. Research approval can be requested through the Research Proposal Form.
Communication with close ones and colleagues will be limited to emails and telecoms – phones are not allowed during the mission.
During isolation, you will be provided with a daily research schedule. Free time will also be available for personal matters.
During the isolation mission, 1–2 hours of sports activities daily are mandatory.