About / Mission
- Spaceflight Human Optimization & Performance Summit
- April 30 - May 2 | Space Center Houston | Houston, Texas
Mission Statement for the Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit (SHOP)
The Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit (SHOP) is dedicated to advancing human capability, health, and resilience in spaceflight by uniting experts, innovators, and stakeholders in human performance. Through collaboration, research, and knowledge exchange, SHOP propels the discovery, development, and integration of cutting-edge practices that prepare astronauts, scientists, engineers, and commercial crew for the unique challenges of space exploration.
As humanity embarks on the next era of exploration—encompassing Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Lunar missions, Mars, and beyond—SHOP focuses on equipping humans for sustained success in environments that demand peak physical, mental, and operational readiness. Each initiative within SHOP aims to foster a safe, effective, and dynamic approach to human optimization in microgravity, high-radiation, and isolated settings, supporting both NASA’s ambitious goals and those of the burgeoning commercial space sector.
Core Objectives
Pioneering Research and Applied Science
SHOP emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge scientific research and real-world application. It is a forum where leading scientists, medical experts, exercise physiologists, and technologists share findings that address the physical and psychological demands of extended space travel. By doing so, SHOP supports the translation of laboratory discoveries into practical strategies that improve mission success and mitigate risks for crew members.Focus on Human Performance for Diverse Space Missions
SHOP centers on both short- and long-duration missions in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with the ISS, commercial space stations, and exploratory missions like the Artemis Lunar program and Mars expeditions. It explores how the demands of LEO and deep-space missions differ, understanding that Mars and lunar missions will require unique physiological and psychological preparedness and adaptation strategies to ensure human health and mission success.Mars and Beyond: Long-Term Exploration Readiness
The Mars and Beyond initiative within SHOP focuses on preparing astronauts for the multi-year journey to Mars and the extreme conditions they will encounter. Emphasizing endurance, bone density preservation, muscle strength, psychological resilience, and autonomously managed health systems, SHOP brings attention to the most challenging aspects of these missions. It collaborates with experts in space physiology, neuropsychology, and biomechanics to create frameworks that will enable human adaptation and operational capacity in uncharted conditions.Advancing Human Performance in LEO and Commercial Spaceflight
With the influx of commercial players, SHOP recognizes the importance of addressing the specific needs of new astronauts, space tourists, and commercial crew members. The Leo Initiative supports ongoing missions and enables new commercial entities to leverage the latest science-backed techniques in strength and conditioning, injury prevention, mental resilience, and adaptive protocols for LEO conditions. As commercial space stations become a reality, SHOP serves as a conduit for sharing research and protocols tailored for safe and productive human performance in LEO environments.Fostering Innovation and Technology
SHOP is a nexus for new technologies that support human health and performance in space. Highlighting innovations in wearable tech, smart suits, artificial gravity, countermeasure devices, and more, SHOP encourages a culture of continuous improvement. By bringing in exhibitors, startups, and established companies, SHOP exposes attendees to emerging technologies that redefine human capability in space and generate dialogue about scalable, customizable solutions for the future.Community Building and Knowledge Exchange
SHOP promotes collaboration across government agencies, commercial partners, academia, and industry leaders, fostering a holistic approach to human optimization. It is a community dedicated to sharing experiences, lessons learned, and practical insights, contributing to a collective pool of knowledge that strengthens everyone involved. The summit facilitates structured and informal exchanges, empowering attendees to network, collaborate, and form partnerships that drive innovation and uphold shared standards for human health and safety in space.Training and Education
SHOP provides a platform for hands-on training and educational workshops that prepare attendees to implement and advocate for human optimization practices in spaceflight environments. Through workshops, interactive displays, and breakout sessions, SHOP offers participants access to expert-led instruction on the latest advancements in astronaut training, fitness standards, neuropsychology, and operational health. These offerings equip professionals across disciplines with actionable tools and knowledge they can apply in their respective roles, promoting continuous improvement in human performance.
Vision for the Future
SHOP envisions a future where human optimization for spaceflight becomes a continuously evolving science, providing a foundation for the safe and sustainable exploration of space. As we push the boundaries of human endurance and adaptability, SHOP remains committed to cultivating a collaborative environment that aligns mission goals with the latest advancements in human performance science. By addressing the multifaceted needs of Mars missions, lunar explorations, and commercial LEO enterprises, SHOP supports a bold vision of humanity thriving, adapting, and innovating beyond Earth.
Together, through SHOP, we transform the possibilities of human exploration into realities, enhancing our understanding of human potential while safeguarding the well-being of those who venture into the cosmos.