FAQs

What is Southeast Analog (SEA)?

Southeast Analog (SEA) is a student-led space analog mission organization based at Georgia Tech. Founded in 2025, SEA trains the next generation of space explorers through immersive, interdisciplinary, Earth-based mission simulations designed to mirror aspects of lunar and Martian exploration.

Our mission is simple: Train. Test. Teach.

What is an analog mission?

An analog mission is an Earth-based simulation that mimics certain aspects of space exploration. These missions allow teams to test hardware, operations, research protocols, teamwork, and communication in controlled environments that simulate conditions similar to the Moon or Mars. No single analog mission simulates everything, each focuses on specific systems, scientific experiments, and operational concepts that help advance real human spaceflight.

Is SEA affiliated with NASA?

SEA is an independent, student-led organization. While many of our members have experience with space agencies, research institutions, and industry partners, SEA operates as a student initiative based at Georgia Tech.

Who can join SEA?

We welcome students from all majors and backgrounds. Space exploration requires more than engineers. We need researchers, designers, communicators, business students, policy thinkers, artists, and leaders. Our community includes students from 30+ universities across the United States and Canada.

Do I have to be at Georgia Tech to join?

No. While SEA is based at Georgia Tech, we recruit members from universities across the Southeast and beyond. Some roles may require in-person participation for mission operations, but many teams support remote collaboration. We are also actively developing SEA chapters at other universities to expand hands-on, in-person involvement beyond Georgia Tech. If you are interested in starting a chapter at your school and serving as a Chapter Head, please reach out to us at southeastanalog@gmail.com.

What teams can I join?

SEA includes interdisciplinary mission-critical teams such as:

  • Research

  • Astronaut

  • Mission Control Center (MCC)

  • Habitat & Suit Design

  • Logistics

  • Partnerships & Collaborations

  • Communications

  • GT Administration & Outreach

Each team builds both technical and leadership skills aligned with real mission environments.

What is the time commitment?

Time commitment varies by team and mission phase. Most members contribute between 3–6 hours per week, with increased involvement leading up to mission simulations or major deadlines. We understand students have academic responsibilities and aim to create a flexible but professional environment.

Is this only for aerospace or engineering students?

Not at all. Space missions require expertise in communications, biology, human factors, ethics, policy, operations, business development, design, and more. SEA is intentionally interdisciplinary.

What is the 2026 Mission?

In Summer 2026, SEA will launch its first pilot analog mission. This mission will test research experiments, crew operations, mission control systems, and interdisciplinary coordination in a simulated space environment. More details will be released as mission preparations progress.

What is the Mission Control Center (MCC)?

SEA’s Mission Control Center simulates real flight operations. Flight controllers manage systems, support astronauts, communicate in real-time, and troubleshoot operational challenges during mission simulations. MCC positions include Flight Director, CAPCOM, Flight Surgeon, EVA Officer, and other specialized roles.

Can I submit a research proposal?

Research proposals for the 2026 mission have been selected. Future proposal cycles will be announced on our website and social media.

How can organizations or sponsors get involved?

We welcome partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry partners. Sponsors can support mission operations, student development, research initiatives, and outreach programming. Please contact us at southeastanalog@gmail.com to discuss collaboration opportunities.

How do I apply?

Visit the “Teams” section of our website to apply for a team, explore open positions, or express interest in future opportunities.

Why join SEA?

At SEA, you will:

  • Gain hands-on analog mission experience

  • Develop leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration skills

  • Work alongside driven students from across institutions

  • Contribute to real space exploration research

  • Help build a student-led mission from the ground up

SEA is more than a club, we are a movement to make space exploration accessible to everyone.