NASA launches competition for students to solve Earth and space technology challenges
NASA has announced the ORBIT Challenge 2027, an initiative inviting university and community college students across the United States to tackle mission-related problems. Participants can use NASA's intellectual property to develop solutions for terrestrial issues or create new tools for space flight.
The competition, which opened on September 14, 2026, offers two primary tracks: ORBIT Earth, focused on applying NASA patents to solve Earth-based problems, and ORBIT Space, which targets the development of future space exploration technologies. According to NASA, teams also have the option to pursue an Integration Bonus by working on both tracks simultaneously.
The program provides significant incentives for participants, including prizes totaling up to $500,000 and mentorship from NASA specialists. Finalists will participate in an in-person showcase and gain entry into an accelerator program intended to support careers in entrepreneurship and STEM. The registration period for the challenge concludes on November 16, 2026.
Source: NASA ORBIT Challenge 2027
