NASA’s 2026 Human Lander Challenge
Help shape the future of human spaceflight. U.S.-based college students: learn more and apply.
Apply if you’re a U.S.-based college student interested in space exploration and aerospace design and helping shape the future of human spaceflight. This challenge invites student teams to develop new ideas and technologies for lunar landers — the systems that carry astronauts to and from the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis missions.
| Key information | |
|---|---|
| Sponsoring agency | National Institute of Aerospace |
| Start date | 10/20/2025 11:59 ET |
| End date | 3/4/2026 11:59 ET |
| Challenge type | Ideas |
| Prizes | Total cash prizes: $27,000 |
| Contact | HuLC@nianet.org |
Apply for NASA's 2026 Human Lander Challenge
These federal prize competitions are conducted pursuant to the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, as amended by the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2017. For complete rules, eligibility requirements, and terms and conditions, please visit the hosting agency's competition page.
LAST UPDATED: February 18, 2026
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