NASA has launched the 2027 Human Lander Challenge, inviting university students in the United States to design communication systems for lunar landers and surface operations. The competition focuses on developing solutions that can be implemented within a three to five-year timeframe.
Interested teams must submit a notice of intent by October 15. The full proposal package, consisting of a five to seven-page document and a two-minute video, is due by March 4, 2027.
In the first phase, NASA will select up to 12 finalist teams, with each receiving $9,000 to proceed to the next stage. These finalists will participate in a design review in Huntsville, Alabama, scheduled for June 21–24, 2027.
Following the final review, the top three teams will share a total prize pool of $18,000. The challenge is managed by the National Institute of Aerospace and sponsored by the Human Landing System Program Office.
