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Become the next Saudi Analog Astronaut

Will you become an Analog Astronaut?

The winning team from the Saudi Space Program will embark on an extraordinary journey to AlUla, Saudi Arabia, where they will have the incredible opportunity to learn directly from HRH Princess Abeer Al Saud.

This immersive experience will provide hands-on training, equipping the students with the skills and knowledge to become analog astronauts themselves.

Set against the stunning backdrop of AlUla, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure will inspire the next generation of space pioneers, empowering them to lead Saudi Arabia’s journey to the stars.

Winning Prize

Day 1: Mission Briefing and Team Building

  • Welcome and Orientation: Introduction to mission objectives, protocols, and team assignments.
    Expert Session with Charlotte
  • Pouwels and Mark Heemskerk: Meet your instructors and gain insights into analog missions, space science, and the role of an analog astronaut.
  • Team-Building Exercises: Activities designed to foster cross-cultural teamwork and communication.
  • Mission Gear Check: Receive astronaut suits and equipment, followed by safety and technical checks.

Day 2: Space Habitat Setup and Survival Training

  • Introduction to Habitat Construction: Learn about life-support systems and build a sustainable habitat with limited resources, just like on Mars.
  • Survival Training: Physical and mental resilience training, focusing on hydration, desert navigation, and emergency protocols.
  • Simulation Prep and Practice: Familiarize yourself with mission protocols, tools, and techniques required for the upcoming simulated research mission.

Day 3: Mars Surface Exploration and Research Activities

  • Introduction to Habitat Construction: Learn about life-support systems and build a sustainable habitat with limited resources, just like on Mars.
  • Survival Training: Physical and mental resilience training, focusing on hydration, desert navigation, and emergency protocols.
  • Simulation Prep and Practice: Familiarize yourself with mission protocols, tools, and techniques required for the upcoming simulated research mission.

Day 4: Problem-Solving Under Pressure

  • Mission Scenario Challenges: Encounter “unexpected” mission challenges such as equipment failure or limited oxygen supply, designed to test critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Collaborative Solutions Workshop: Work in teams to brainstorm solutions and apply engineering principles to overcome simulated mission obstacles.
  • Cross-Cultural Exchange and Presentation Prep: Each team shares findings with the group, receiving feedback from instructors and building public speaking skills.

Day 5: Mission Wrap-Up and Debrief

  • Final Research Presentation: Present findings from the Mars simulation to Charlotte, Mark, and fellow participants.
  • Mission Debrief and Reflection: Review team performance, analyze successes and areas for improvement, and reflect on leadership and teamwork skills developed during the program.
  • Award Ceremony and Certificates: Celebrate achievements with a special ceremony, receiving certificates that recognize your participation and accomplishments as analog astronauts.

Inclusions

Round-Trip Flights: Airfare to and from the program location in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.

Ground Transportation: All ground transportation within Saudi Arabia, including airport transfers, transportation to and from AlUla, and daily transportation between the accommodation and training site.

Accommodation: Five nights of secure, comfortable accommodation in AlUla.

All Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks provided daily, featuring a mix of local and international cuisine.

Full Access to Training Facilities: Use of AlUla training facilities, labs, and analog simulation environments.

Mission Equipment and Gear: Astronaut suits, helmets, communication devices, and safety equipment for field activities and simulation exercises.

Space Habitat Setup Materials: Equipment for habitat construction and life-support simulation.

Scientific Equipment: All tools and materials needed for research activities, such as sample collection kits, geology tools, and data analysis instruments.

Research Documentation: All participants will receive personalized mission logs and data summaries from their research activities.

Completion Certificate: An official certificate recognizing completion of the analog astronaut mission, signed by the program leaders and mentors.

Medical Support: On-site medical assistance and first-aid resources available throughout the mission.

24/7 Program Staff Support: Dedicated program staff available to assist with logistics, safety, and participant needs.

What is included?

Return Flights

Accommodation

All Meals

Airport Transfers

All Entrance Fees

Meet your instructors

Charles Gemar

NASA Astronaut

HRH Princess Abeer Al Saud

Analogue Astronaut

Last Year Prize

Last year our winning team flew to the USA and watched 2 live rocket launches with NASA Astronaut Charles Gemar!

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