Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving profile of astronauts needed for future Mars missions, emphasizing the necessity for individuals with unique backgrounds, such as adventurers, who can thrive in extreme and isolated environments [2][3][4]. Group 1: Astronaut Selection for Mars Missions - Current astronauts are primarily selected from backgrounds in engineering, piloting, or science, but for Mars missions, NASA may need to consider candidates with experience in crisis situations and teamwork, such as outdoor adventurers [2][4]. - Joseph Dituri, a unique candidate with a background in deep-sea exploration, exemplifies the type of individual who could bring different skills to the astronaut role, despite not fitting the traditional mold [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges of Mars Missions - Mars missions will require astronauts to endure a journey exceeding 200 days, necessitating exceptional psychological resilience and teamwork skills due to the prolonged isolation and potential stressors [2][4][5]. - NASA is already preparing for six-month missions and is considering the implications of longer space travel, indicating a shift in how astronaut capabilities are evaluated [4][5]. Group 3: Historical Context of Astronaut Selection - Historically, NASA has selected astronauts from military and aviation backgrounds, but the unique demands of Mars missions may require a reevaluation of this approach [4][5]. - The agency has previously considered unconventional candidates, such as balloonists and mountaineers, but ultimately opted for pilots due to concerns about finding suitable candidates from those fields [4].