NASA ORBIT Registration Deadline

Registrations for the 2026–2027 NASA ORBIT Challenge are open until Monday, November 16, 2026.

Register through NASA STEM Gateway.

What Is the NASA ORBIT Challenge?

After a successful first year of ingenuity and career-building, NASA ORBIT—Research, Business, Innovation, and Technology Opportunities—is returning for a second season. The competition puts college and university student innovation at the forefront of Earth technology development and deep space exploration.

Throughout the competition, teams will conduct targeted research, develop an initial model, and complete a feasibility analysis to refine their proposals. Top-performing teams will earn a place in an in-person pitch showcase, where they will present their solutions to a panel of expert judges. Winners will be selected based on their presentations and interactive question-and-answer sessions.

NASA ORBIT Challenge Tracks

ORBIT Earth

Teams in the ORBIT Earth track must select a NASA-owned patent and develop a novel commercial or nonprofit application that addresses a critical problem on Earth.

Potential applications could include rethinking drones to reduce noise pollution or creating improved medical technology to enhance patient care. Each team must establish a clear path toward public good.

ORBIT Space

ORBIT Space focuses on next-generation technologies for space exploration. Solutions should support NASA’s Artemis program and future efforts to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Teams may develop viable concepts related to power, communications, navigation, lifestyle solutions, astronaut health and well-being, and other space exploration needs.

New NASA ORBIT Awards and Recognition

Projects that successfully combine goals from both the Earth and Space tracks will be eligible for special integration bonuses.

The 2026–2027 season also introduces two specialty recognitions:

• Faculty Advisor Selection Award: Recognizes professionalism and communication between teams.
• Next Step Award: Honors the team with the strongest roadmap for continuing project development after the challenge ends.

Why Students Should Join NASA ORBIT

NASA ORBIT celebrates student excellence, advances leading technology solutions, and helps build a pipeline of interdisciplinary talent. The challenge gives students immersive experience with NASA’s core missions, direct access to agency leadership, and industry-ready skills that connect academic and aerospace careers.

How to Register for NASA ORBIT

Review the contest details, eligibility requirements, and official rules before registering.

Registration closes November 16, 2026. Visit NASA STEM Gateway to register.