The NASA Artemis II Human Research Data Methodology Challenge invites you to tackle a unique scientific problem: how to extract meaningful insights from data generated by just four astronauts, spanning complex physiological, behavioral, and operational systems.
Why is this problem important?
The Artemis II mission will generate small, high-dimensional datasets from four astronauts, which limits the breadth of insights that can be drawn directly from the mission. Identifying proven methodologies capable of extracting more complex insights from such data will be critical for advancing human spaceflight research and protecting astronaut health.
What are we seeking?
Participants should apply established, peer-reviewed methodologies, drawn from fields such as medicine, biology, or environmental science to proxy datasets, demonstrating how these approaches can generate insights and be applied to real Artemis II mission data.
Applicants Should:
Demonstrate how proven data methodologies can be applied to the unique, small-sample, high-dimensional data from the Artemis II mission.
A submission will include:
- Methodology Description (PDF, max 3 pages): A clear explanation of your approach, its theoretical basis, and the evidence base supporting its effectiveness.
- Demonstration Using Proxy Data (ZIP file with working code and ReadMe): Your methodology applied to the challenge proxy data in a documented, reproducible format.
- Application Narrative (PDF, max 3 pages): A detailed explanation of how your approach addresses the specific constraints of the Artemis II data — sample size, dimensionality, and multi-modal data types.
- Superlative Criterion Response (Optional, max 2,500 characters): Your response to the question ‘What additional data would you have collected to further enhance the value of the existing data?
What will you gain from applying?
Participants can compete for recognition and cash prizes, contribute to NASA’s Human Research Program, and join a growing network of researchers supporting future space missions.
Who can apply?
This challenge is conducted under the America COMPETES Act, and participation is limited to United States citizens, permanent residents, and qualifying entities. The following eligibility requirements apply:
1. Individual Participants: An individual participant, whether competing alone or as part of a team, must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States at the time of registration and at the time of prize award.
2. Team Participants: Teams may register and compete as a group. All team members must individually meet the eligibility requirements described in this section. Teams must designate a single point of contact for all official communications and prize disbursement.
3. Private Entities: A private entity (including corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, and similar organizations) must be incorporated in and maintain a primary place of business in the United States.
Ineligible Participants: The following individuals and entities are not eligible to compete or receive prizes: Federal entities and federal employees acting within the scope of their employment; Employees of the challenge management contractor and their immediate family members; Individuals or entities that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from participation in federal programs; Any individual or entity that does not meet the eligibility requirements set forth above.
Award
$25,000 total prize pool distributed among up to 15 winners (1st place: $5,000)
Deadline:
June 5, 2026, 11:59 pm CST
Interested in making an impact?
Explore the full challenge details and get started here: https://hrpdatachallenge.org
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