NASA · Space

NASA ORBIT Challenge Returns for Second Season

NASA has opened applications for the second season of its ORBIT (Opportunities in Research, Business, Innovation, and Technology) student challenge, encouraging university and college teams to develop innovative solutions for Earth technology and deep-space exploration.

Registration for the 2026-2027 challenge is open until November 16, 2026. The competition offers up to $500,000 in prize funding and requires student teams to conduct research, conceptualize models, and perform feasibility analyses.

The ORBIT Earth track challenges teams to develop new commercial or nonprofit applications for NASA-owned patents to address terrestrial problems, focusing on public benefit.

The ORBIT Space track focuses on developing technologies for NASA's Artemis program and future sustainable human presence on the Moon and Mars, covering areas like power, communications, and astronaut health.

Special recognitions include an Integration Bonus for projects uniting both tracks, a Faculty Advisors’ Choice Award for professionalism, and a Next Steps Award for strong post-challenge development roadmaps.

The challenge aims to celebrate student excellence, drive technical solutions, and build a pipeline of talent by providing students with NASA mentorship and industry-ready skills.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.