NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge 2027

Overview

A nine-month NASA engineering challenge in which student teams design and build a human-powered or remote-controlled rover for a simulated lunar terrain course, then compete in person at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama in April 2027. There's no entry fee and no geographic restriction — proposals are due 17 September 2026 at 8:00 a.m. Central Time, after which teams pass a series of design and readiness reviews before the final event.

Coverage & Financial Benefits

• No registration or application fee
• Open to US and international teams
• Hands-on engineering experience mirroring real NASA mission design reviews
• Final excursion event held at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center site in Huntsville

Requirements & Eligibility

• Team from a middle school, high school, college or university (grades 6-12 or higher ed)
• Submit a proposal by 17 September 2026, 8:00 a.m. Central Time
• Pass Design, Operational Readiness, Mission Readiness and Excursion Readiness reviews
• Team must be able to travel to Huntsville, Alabama for the final event

Required Documents