Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO)

Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO) is sponsored by NASA Human Research Program (HRP). NASA's Human Research Program (HRP) periodically funds research addressing risks and knowledge gaps in human spaceflight. This includes opportunities for scientists to apply for funding through designated Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO).

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Interested scientists can apply for this funding through designated Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO). Research supported by HRP falls under the umbrella of one or more of HRP’s five elements: Space Radiation, Human Health Countermeasures, Exploration Medical Capability, Human Factors and Behavioral Performance, and Research Operations and Integration.

For other research opportunities open through the space agency, browse the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES). HRP recommends that you familiarize yourself with the following resources to strengthen your application. The Human Research Roadmap provides an overview of the risks and knowledge gaps that HRP associates with human spaceflight.

Learn About Human Research Roadmap NASA provides comprehensive policy guidance on the pre-award, award, post-award, and closeout phases of the grant management life cycle. Learn About NASA Grant Guide The NASA Life Sciences Portal provides downloadable guides that explain how to navigate various HRP grants.

HRP evaluates proposals using dual-anonymous peer review (DAPR), which ensures that proposers and reviewers remain unaware of their respective identities. Past HERO Award Announcements NASA Funds Eight Studies to Protect Astronaut Health on Long Missions NASA Funds Studies to Support Crew Performance on Long-Duration Missions Explore NASA’s Task Book to find awarded research projects supported by HRP.

Visitors to the NASA Task Book can view project descriptions, annual progress, final reports, and bibliographical listings of publications resulting from NASA-funded studies. Discover More Topics From NASA Space Station Research and Technology