Hypatia II — Mars Desert Research Station Mission
Utah, United States — February 2 to 15, 2025
Following the success of the first mission, the Hypatia II crew embarked on an exciting new journey on Mars. Selected through a competitive process organized by the Hypatia Mars Association, the became the 310th crew to conduct a two-week simulation at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah.
Crew Members
Main Scientific Research Areas
During the 12-SOL mission, Hypatia II focused on multidisciplinary research to support future human exploration of Mars:
Astronomy
Observational astronomy projects simulating how the cosmos would be studied from the surface of Mars
Biology
Research in microbial, plant, and animal sciences aimed at understanding how life could survive, adapt, and thrive in Mars-like environment
Engineering
Hands-on projects that test and evaluate technologies essential for enabling human life and operations on Mars
Human Factors
Studies focused on the physical, psychological, and social challenges of human life in isolated, confined, and extreme environments similar to Mars
Geology
Field investigations involving the collection and analysis of Martian-analog samples to uncover the planet’s past and identify resources critical for future exploration
Sustainability
Projects dedicated to developing self-sufficient systems for energy, food, water, and waste management to support long-term habitats on Mars
Science Communication
&Outreach
Making space science accessible, inspiring, and inclusive by translating complex research into engaging stories, educational resources, and public dialogue
Research Projects
- Martian Workouts: Study of the Effect of Nutrition and Physical Training on Body Composition Changes in Crew Members (Human Factors)
- Astrophotography on Mars (Astronomy)
- Macro art by Satellite (Engineering, Outreach and communication)
- Mapping Mars surface characteristics with drones (Engineering)
- Simulating Satellite Calibration orbiting Mars Using Corner Reflectors (with Sentinel-3 A&B) (Engineering)
- The female cyclicity as a tool for self-consciousness (Human Factors)
- In-Situ Analysis in Sample Return Missions: Optimizing Space Exploration (Geology)
- Cognitive Health correlations: physiological and metabolic markers (Human Factors)
- Hypatia’s Circular Odisey: Tracing the sustainable path of the Hypatia II Mission (Sustainability)
- Spacetatoullie: Designing a 24-Hour Space Menu for Astronaut Health and Performance (Outreach and communication)
- AstroGrow: Developing Optimal Growth Mechanisms for Space and Earth-Born Tomatoes (Biology, Outreach and communication)
- Enhancing Solar Panel Efficiency for Dusty Mars Environments (Engineering)
- 3D printing tools on Mars (Engineering)
- Children Chronicle of the Hypatia II Mission (Outreach and communication)
- Space Weather, monitoring the Sun activity from Mars (Astronomy)
Mission Highlights (12 SOLs)
30 minutes of daily morning sport in the lower deck
3 showers per person
in 12 SOLs
4 homemade breads,
2 cakes, and 123 coffee mugs filled
Over 120 3D printed components for three research projects
Average sleep:
~6 hours/night
768 m² of fabric deployed on the matian soil
The Crew Engineer completed another orbit around the Sun— from Mars! (SOL 7)
43 rock samples collected at 12 locations
22 EVAs completed
EVA Operations
EVA #4 – Start of Corner Reflector Installation
After exiting the base through the RAM, the team walked uphill to the concrete patch to begin assembling and securing the two-piece reflector. Tools were transported in a small cart, keeping the RAM open for flexible access throughout the EVA. The crew drilled and secured the reflector in place, while the resident artist documented the work. After 2.5 hours they returned through the RAM to the base, planning to complete the installation during the next EVA.
EVA #10 – Macro Art Project Completed
After two failed attempts due to wind, the team arrived early at the site, ready to unfold a large-scale art piece. The crew had prepared the area the day before, leaving it pre-marked for easy setup. With calm conditions, they successfully deployed the fabric in time for two satellites to capture the cross. The crew also documented the artwork with drone footage and ground recordings before packing up and returning to the base.
EVA #15– Geologic sampling at Barrainca Butte
The crew visited Barrainca Butte, chosen for its geological significance, and used a VANTA Max portable XRF to analyze rocks in situ. This allowed the geologist to prioritize scientifically valuable samples while applying geoconservation principles, allowing the crew to quickly identifying the most relevant rocks for collection. The EVA was documented throughout with photos and drone footage.
GreenHab Harvest Summary
Crop
Harvest (g)
Jazz mix
0
Red cabbage
35
Rocket
248
Salad mix sprouts
0
Carrots
363
Chinese radish
68
Radish
342
Turnip
332
Scallion
139
Fennel
57
Cucumber
297
Crop
Harvest (g)
Cherry tomatoes (Red)
302
Cherry tomatoes (Yellow)
0
Microgreens
0
Basil
160
Chives
0
Coriander
63
Lemon balm
0
Mint
37
Sage
0
Salvia
0
Thyme
0
Water Consumption Overview
Initial supply
1785.20 litres
End supply
751.78 litres
Avg. daily consumption
10.5 litres
(per person)
Mission Logs
Throughout the mission, the crew documented daily activities, scientific progress, EVA operations. These reports provide insight into the operational rhythm of the station, the challenges faced, and the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Acknowledgements
The Hypatia II mission was made possible thanks to the support of numerous institutions, organizations, and private companies committed to advancing space exploration and STEM leadership.
