SPACE STRESS TEST: MENTAL HEALTH & ISOLATION SOLUTIONS

Overview / Problem Statement

Long-duration space missions — whether aboard the International Space Station or future lunar and Martian habitats — subject astronauts to extreme environments. These include prolonged isolation, confinement, disrupted sleep cycles, monotony, and psychological stress. As we prepare for deeper space exploration, supporting astronauts’ mental health becomes just as critical as sustaining physical health.

This competition invites the general public to propose a conceptual system, routine, or technology that could help astronauts manage stress, isolation, and boredom while living in space for extended periods. Think beyond just clinical psychology — what routines, digital tools, interactive systems, or human-centered innovations could make space feel a little more like home?

What You Can Propose

Participants can propose any of the following (or similar ideas):

• A routine or daily structure designed to improve mental well-being
• A technology (e.g., wearable, app, virtual companion)
• A psychological support protocol (e.g., crew bonding, Earth-connection methods)
• A multi-sensory stimulation system (e.g., light, sound, smell, VR)
• Any non-medical intervention that contributes to emotional resilience, boredom reduction, or stress management

Rules & Guidelines

• Open to all Pakistani citizens (age 15 and above)
• Individual or team (up to 3 members)
• Submit a concept proposal (PDF format)
• Word limit: 800–1,200 words
• Include
  • Problem addressed
  • Proposed solution
  • How it works (with examples or illustrations if applicable)
  • Relevance to space conditions (microgravity, confinement, etc.)
  • Why it would be effective? (psychological principles, precedent, etc.)
  • Diagram, flowchart, or interface mockup (1-page max)
  • Video demo/pitch (max 2 minutes, optional)

Evaluation Criteria (Total 100 points)

Submission Deadline

20 October 2025

Submit Report

Download Post Event Report Format and submit by clicking link https://forms.gle/nGaEbSCTD2TZ63hT6