2025 Humans In Space Challenge

A Global Challenge calling for visionary startups and researchers, with groundbreaking solutions for health hazards in space exploration, orbital experiments targeting critical diseases, and next-generation space healthcare leveraging Artificial Intelligence.

Timeline

Applications Open (May 22)

Application Closed (July 18, 11:59 PM (ET))

1st Round Winner Announcement (August 15)

Virtual Pitch Event (August 27&28)

2nd Round Winner Announcement (September 12)

Final Pitch Event (Late October)

Final Round Winner Announcement (Early November)

HIS Accelerator Program (Mid November)

*Based on Eastern Time (ET) / Subject to change

Awards and Benefits

Awards

Selected teams may receive support through two award categories: Equity Investment and Orbital Launch Funding (OLF). In 2025, a total investment pool of approximately $2 million will be allocated across selected companies through Boryung and its global investors.

Equity Investment
[For Startups]
Up to $500K of equity based funding from global investors
Orbital Launch Funding
[For Startups & Researchers]
Up to $300K to directly support the costs associated to sending selected ideas into orbit

Benefits

Humans In Space Cohort Members will have access to exclusive benefits to complement and support the advancement of their research and technology.

HIS Accelerator Program

Tailored mentorships and workshops supporting orbital launch by leading space researchers, corporates, and investors

Networking & International Exposure

Connection with key figures in the space industry through exclusive networking and in-person pitching opportunities at global conference

Alumni Network

Robust alumni network to promote professional growth and collaboration opportunities


On-Orbit Experiment Feasibility Assessment

Tailored on-orbit experiment feasibility and quotation assessment through HIS Implementation Partners

AWS Credit

Complimentary credits worth $100k to access AWS services for experiment data management & analysis

Fast Prototyping and Technical Support

Access to Thales Alenia Space operated Space Business Catalyst that provides a) Fast prototype support, b) Environment Testing Means & Assembly, Integration, and Test Facility, c) Technical mentors

Orbital Launch Funding

Orbital Launch Funding supports researchers and startups with visions of achieving breakthrough discoveries and innovations through Space. Through Humans In Space, researchers and startups will gain access to funding and strategic partners to further enhance their idea, develop their experiments, and successfully fulfill their vision in orbit. Aside from financial support, applicants will be guided through HIS tailored sessions and introductions to experts.

2025 Humans In Space Core Tracks

As a step closer to realizing its vision, the 2025 Humans In Space Program presents 3 Key Space Healthcare Tracks reflecting prioritized research and innovation areas of leading government, corporate, medical, and investment partners.

Exploration
Track

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Life Science
Track

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Artificial Intelligence
Track

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Humans In Space Partnership

Humans In Space is powered by a global alliance of agencies and companies committed to advancing health beyond Earth. Our partners provide access to research infrastructure, mission pathways, and technical expertise - helping turn bold ideas into real-world impact.

Space Agency & Affiliate Partners

Provide opportunities for direct collaboration on mission-relevant research. Selected teams may allign with agency priorities - including the Human Research Roadmap under NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP) - and gain access to ground or on-orbit infrastructure for experimentation.

Implementation Partners

Support the transition from concept to on-orbit testing. Selected teams may receive feasibility validation and access to infrastructure for space-based experimentation.

Global Investor Partners

Bring global visibility and strategic insight to bold ideas in space and health. Selected teams may benefit from exposure and tailored support to accelerate development and commercialization.

2025 Humans In Space Accelerator Program

A space healthcare-tailored accelerator program offering mentorship, ground and on-orbit technology validation, global exposure, technical resources, and access to a strong alumni network—all designed to accelerate breakthrough space innovations. The program is supported by HIS Acceleration Partners and Life Science Partners.

Selected participants in the Humans In Space Accelerator Program will gain access to the following resources and opportunities:

Tailored
Mentorship

Guidance from experts in space health, biotech, and commercialization

Business &
Funding Support

Strategic advice and investor access to fuel your growth

Technology
Validation

Ground simulation/Zero-G flight and on-orbit flight opportunities to test your technology

Global
Exposure

Showcase your innovation across global space and healthcare communities

Acceleration Partners

Enable extended support through aligned accelerator and incubation programs. Partners provide follow-on opportunities, deep tech review, and seamless connection to space innovation ecosystems to amplify each team's growth.

Aurelia’s incubation
ecosystem & Horizon Program

ESA's BSGN Life Sciences Industry Accelerator

Space Business Catalyst

Life Science Partners

Provide tailored mentorship from leading experts, academic institutions and research centers. Partners offer scientific feedback and guidance on technology validation and feasibility for on-orbit research.

Tailored Mentorship
Technology Validation and Feasibility Test

Humans In Space Ecosystem

Connect with a prestigious global network of space agencies, industry leaders, and conference platforms. Participants gain visibility and access to the main stage of the international space community.

Key Highlight

Humans In Space has actively collaborated with key organizations to further expand the reach of space healthcare topic and invite more researchers and innovators into its ecosystem.

Humans In Space - American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Partnership

Humans In Space became an official member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) in 2023, launching a valuable partnership that began with hosting our pitch competition at ASCEND.

In 2024, we deepened this collaboration by hosting dedicated sessions, operating an exclusive booth, and forming official partnerships with key space industry leaders. Following our engagement, AIAA introduced a new Life Sciences technical track—driven in part by our shared interest in advancing space healthcare.

Now in 2025, Space Healthcare (Humans In Space) is a featured topic in the ASCEND Call for Content, further solidifying our role in shaping the future of human healthcare in space. Through AIAA’s extensive network and ongoing collaboration, we continue to accelerate innovation and broaden our global impact.

Humans In Space - International Astronautical Federation (IAF) Partnership

Humans In Space is proud to be an official partner of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), a globally recognized platform for advancing international space collaboration.

As part of this partnership, we hosted our signature pitch competition on the main stage, engaged with global partners, and introduced our space station module-inspired booth — which was honored as the Most Creative Booth at IAC.

We also organized a dedicated astronaut session focused on human health risks in space, reinforcing our commitment to advancing the space healthcare agenda. In 2025, we were invited to join the IAF Life Sciences Committee, expanding our role in shaping the conversation around biomedical research and health in space.

2025 Humans In Space Advisory Board

The Humans In Space Advisory Board is joined by key space leaders and experts who will steer the initiative’s roadmap.

※ Our Advisory Board members are listed in alphabetical order.

2025 Humans In Space Experts

※ Our Experts are listed in alphabetical order according to their respective affiliations.