Overview

• The peer-reviewed paper by Iser Pena and Hao Chen of Stevens Institute of Technology was published October 8, 2025 in PLOS ONE.
• Using agent-based modeling that integrated Big Five traits with mission roles, the authors simulated a 500-day Mars mission.
• Heterogeneous teams in the simulations showed lower stress and stronger cohesion, health, and performance than homogeneous teams.
• Combinations such as high conscientiousness with low neuroticism or high extraversion with high agreeableness were associated with better outcomes.
• The authors urge incorporating personality assessments into crew selection while cautioning that the model assumes fixed traits and simplified dynamics.