FAQ

Mission I.A.M. is an initiative with a crazy ambition: to develop a bionic leg that will enable a para-athlete to run the Marathon des Sables in April 2030 – one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world (250 km across the Sahara).

But the project is about more than technology alone. It is a movement where science, sport, innovation, and storytelling come together:

From Science to Sand: from cutting-edge research and high-tech engineering to the ultimate test in the desert.

Stronger Together: scientists, athletes, entrepreneurs and supporters joining forces as one unstoppable team.

The Story Unfolds: a journey on the edge of impossible — where every step writes the next chapter of innovation.

In short: Mission I.A.M. is an international innovation and inspiration mission that shows how humans and technology can push boundaries together — and invites you to be part of that story.

We start by understanding even better than we do already what’s needed. Collecting data, improving the musculoskeletal models, making measuring technology for out-of-lab conditions, etc.

Once we’ve done that, we take the next steps: improving prototype prostheses, testing, improving, etc.

Take a look at the Technology page for updates on technology development.

Making Mission I.A.M. a success requires more than just ambition. It calls for a unique combination of elements that together turn a moonshot into reality:

• Cutting-edge technology – advanced biomechanics, smart sensors, AI-driven models, and desert-ready engineering that can withstand the world’s toughest conditions. This is where science meets extreme practice.

• The right infrastructure and resources – labs, testing facilities, field equipment, and medical support, but also the logistics to move from controlled environments to the unpredictability of the Sahara.

• The best people – a team of world-class researchers, bold athletes, visionary entrepreneurs, and committed partners who each bring their expertise and passion to the mission.

• Funding – investment that fuels research and development, athlete preparation, and the global communication engine needed to inspire and attract even more partners.

• Enthusiastic supporters – a community of followers, fans, and sponsors who spread the story, celebrate the milestones, and help transform Mission I.A.M. into a movement that goes beyond sport and science.

• Direct engagement – we want you to be and feel part of the journey. That means meeting us in person, getting hands-on with the latest prototypes, and binge-watching our progress as if it were your favorite series. To make that possible, we go out into the world: giving talks, hosting demonstrations, appearing at major events, and opening up our process so everyone can experience the adventure up close.

Together, these pillars fuel Mission I.A.M. — the launchpad for achieving the impossible: running 250 km through the desert on a bionic leg.

YES!

As we move forward on our roadmap, there are many ways to contribute. We take things one ambitious step at a time — developing new technology while making the most of your support, energy, and involvement.

Our ways of working evolve too: start now by cheering us on, offline and online, and by sharing the story with others. Soon, you’ll be able to support the mission with a donation. Later, you can grab some of our cool merchandise and even join us in collecting data and testing prototypes.

Every action moves us ahead. Check back here regularly for new ways to get involved, subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date, and check out our partnership page for more info.