What's Happening?
NASA has introduced the Opportunities in Research, Business, Innovation, and Technology (ORBIT) challenge, a multi-phase competition aimed at university and college students. The challenge encourages students to
develop innovative solutions that benefit both life on Earth and deep-space exploration. With a total prize fund of $380,000, the competition includes two tracks: ORBIT Earth and ORBIT Space. The Earth track focuses on adapting NASA-owned patents for real-world applications, while the Space track involves designing systems for NASA's future missions, including the Artemis program. The challenge aims to accelerate innovation in critical areas and engage students in NASA's mission to explore space and improve life on Earth.
Why It's Important?
The ORBIT challenge is significant as it fosters a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers who can contribute to NASA's goals and the broader scientific community. By engaging students in real-world challenges, NASA is cultivating a pipeline of interdisciplinary talent that can drive future advancements in space exploration and technology. The competition also provides students with valuable experience in systems design, entrepreneurship, and commercialization, which are essential skills for the modern workforce. Additionally, the challenge supports NASA's mission to maintain U.S. leadership in space exploration and technological innovation, which has far-reaching implications for national security, economic growth, and scientific discovery.
What's Next?
Students interested in participating in the ORBIT challenge can register until February 9, 2026, through the NASA STEM Gateway. As the competition progresses, student teams will conduct research, develop mockups, and present their concepts to a panel of expert judges. The challenge will culminate in a live showcase where finalists will pitch their ideas. NASA will continue to provide mentorship and access to agency facilities to support the participants. The outcomes of the challenge could lead to new technologies and applications that benefit both NASA's missions and various industries on Earth.
