The NASA FY 2025 Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) seeks to support applied research aligned with NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP). This initiative prioritizes astronaut health and performance during space missions, especially under conditions encountered on extended exploration missions to the Moon and Mars. HERO aims to mitigate risks associated with space radiation, medical capabilities, health countermeasures, and human factors, and improve research operations. Funded projects will address these areas through various opportunities, including Omnibus (smaller projects up to $250,000 per year), Flagship (3-5 year projects ranging from $1,000,000 - $1,500,000 per award), and Specialized Center of Research (NSCOR) opportunities, which typically involve larger, multi-institutional projects.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based universities, non-profits, and private and government laboratories. International participation is encouraged for collaboration, although NASA funding may only be used for U.S.-based organizations. Notably, the application process follows a two-step submission system: a Step-1 proposal to gauge interest and suitability, followed by an invitation to submit a more detailed Step-2 proposal. Both steps require submissions via the NASA NSPIRES system, adhering to guidelines and deadlines specified in the corresponding Appendices. The HERO program encourages diversity and inclusivity within research teams, with an inclusion plan mandated as part of the proposal, particularly emphasizing a team’s environment rather than institutional policies.

Applications are evaluated using dual-anonymous peer review to reduce bias, with criteria assessing the proposed project’s relevance to NASA’s mission, scientific merit, feasibility, and the team’s expertise. Proposals are reviewed on scientific impact, methodology, and alignment with HERO’s objectives. Specific requirements include a data management plan, adherence to NASA’s open-access policies, and compliance with ethical standards if human or animal subjects are involved.

Awards under this NOFO are contingent on budget availability and peer-review outcomes. Successful applicants are expected to submit data in compliance with NASA’s standards, including the timely sharing of results and raw data for public access, and may be required to return biospecimen samples to support future research. Interested parties should monitor the NASA NSPIRES system for updates, and the anticipated award date is roughly one year from Appendix release.