NASA opens student competition for 2026 human lander innovations

NASA has launched the 2026 Human Lander Challenge (HuLC), inviting student teams across the United States to propose new solutions for advancing human landing system technologies. The initiative supports NASA's Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate in preparing for lunar missions under the Artemis program.

The competition seeks innovative ideas in known technology development areas that will improve lander systems used to transport astronauts to and from the Moon's surface. Through HuLC, students can directly contribute to NASA's long-term exploration goals while applying classroom learning to real-world aerospace engineering.

The program is open to interdisciplinary teams of undergraduate and graduate students from accredited U.S. community colleges, colleges, and universities. Participants will design and present concepts that address challenges in areas such as safety, performance, and sustainability for future human landers.

NASA has allocated $126,000 in total prizes for the 2026 cycle. The challenge opened on August 29, 2025, and will accept submissions until March 4, 2026. Details and registration are available through the official HuLC website.