In this challenge, participants are asked to design an analogue habitat located in the Atacama Desert — one of the driest and most Mars-like places on Earth. This environment, known for its hyper-arid soil, intense solar radiation, and extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night, provides an unparalleled setting for testing technologies and strategies for living and working on the surface of Mars.

Participants should develop a comprehensive concept for a desert-based habitat that can host researchers and crew members safely and comfortably while supporting meaningful mission simulations. These might include autonomous rover testing, soil and water extraction experiments, habitat dust protection systems, or studies on crew health and performance in extremely dry, isolated conditions. The design must clearly demonstrate how its features and layout enable these mission activities while remaining practical and environmentally responsible.