The PETRA missions represent JSRI’s commitment to connecting space exploration with sustainability, education, and community engagement. Conducted in Wadi Rum, often called Mars on Earth, these missions simulate aspects of human spaceflight and planetary research while creating tangible benefits for people on the ground.

PETRA, which stands for Psychological, Environmental, and Technological Research Analog, is JSRI’s flagship analog research program. The name also pays tribute to the ancient city of Petra, symbolizing both Jordan’s heritage and humanity’s enduring quest to explore new frontiers.

The PETRA program is designed to test technologies, study human factors, and explore how space-based solutions can contribute to sustainability on Earth. Each mission integrates research, outreach, and community partnership, carried out in close collaboration with the local Bedouin community of Wadi Rum.

PETRA-1 | First Jordanian Analog Mission, March 2024

In 2024, JSRI launched PETRA-1, Jordan’s first analog space mission. Conducted in Wadi Rum, the mission marked a historic milestone for the country and for JSRI’s growing space ecosystem.

PETRA-1 was the pilot mission for all other Jordanian missions to come. It established JSRI’s model for community-centered analog missions, in which local hosts play an active role in mission operations and logistics, ensuring mutual benefit and shared learning. Research was carried out in the three main areas of psychology, environment, and psychology.

PETRA-2 | World's Biggest Analog, October 2025

In 2025, JSRI conducted PETRA-2 as part of the World’s Biggest Analog, a global initiative connecting analog habitats across multiple continents under coordination from Mission Control in Vienna. PETRA-2 represented another milestone, featuring the first all-Arab female analog crew representing Jordan and Palestine.

The mission expanded JSRI’s focus on sustainability, inclusion, and community engagement. Working closely with local partners in Wadi Rum, the mission integrated scientific research with educational outreach, inspiring local children and showcasing how space exploration can create positive impact on Earth.