NASA has launched the 2026 Human Lander Challenge, inviting U.S.-based university students to propose fresh concepts for life support and environmental systems vital to long-duration spaceflight. The program, part of the Artemis campaign, focuses on advancing Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technologies needed to sustain astronauts on the Moon and future missions to Mars. by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Sep 26, 2025
NASA has launched the 2026 Human Lander Challenge, inviting U.S.-based university students to propose fresh concepts for life support and environmental systems vital to long-duration spaceflight. The program, part of the Artemis campaign, focuses on advancing Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technologies needed to sustain astronauts on the Moon and future missions to Mars.
The challenge seeks undergraduate and graduate teams to design systems-level solutions across four subtopics: noise control, sensor reduction in health monitoring hardware, potable water dispensing, and fluid transfer between lunar or Martian surface assets. Proposals must improve ECLSS reliability in areas such as air, water, and waste management.
"A robust ECLSS transforms a spacecraft like a lander from just hardware into a livable environment, providing breathable air, clean water, and safe conditions for astronauts as they explore the Moon," said Kevin Gutierrez, acting office manager for the Human Landing Systems Missions Systems Management Office at NASA Marshall. "Without ECLSS we can't sustain human presence on the Moon or take the next steps toward Mars. The subtopics in the 2026 Human Lander Challenge reflect opportunities for students to support the future of human spaceflight."
Teams must submit a non-binding notice of intent by Oct. 20, 2025, with full proposals due March 4, 2026. Up to 12 finalists will advance to Phase 2 and receive a $9,000 stipend, presenting their work near NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in June 2026. The top three teams will share $18,000 in prize funding.
SpaceX and Blue Origin are developing human landing systems to ferry Artemis astronauts between lunar orbit and the surface. NASA Marshall oversees the Human Landing System Program, with the National Institute of Aerospace administering the challenge.
Through Artemis, NASA aims to advance lunar science, stimulate economic opportunities, and lay groundwork for the first human missions to Mars.
Related Links
Human Lander Challenge
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