This annual contest, co-sponsored by NASA Ames and the National Space Society (NSS) is for all students up to 12th grade (18 years old) from anywhere in the world. Individuals, small teams of two to six, and large teams of seven or more are invited to send submissions about orbital settlements – permanent communities in orbit, as opposed to living on the Moon or other planets.
Designs, original research, essays, stories, models, artwork or any other orbital space settlement related materials may be submitted.
Teachers are encouraged to use this contest as part of their curriculum.
Design Orbital Space Settlements for NASA
Submissions must relate to orbital settlements. Settlements may not be on a planet or moon. Settlements must be permanent, relatively self-sufficient homes, not temporary work camps.
All 2013 contest participants are invited to attend the NSS 32nd annual International Space Development Conference in San Diego, CA 23-27 May, 2013. Every year, hundreds of contestants attend, along with their parents, teachers, siblings and friends. Special activities for contestants are planned, including:
- The single highest scoring team or individual attending will receive the NSS Bruce M. Clark, Jr. Memorial Space Settlement Award for $5,000. If a team wins, the sum will be evenly divided amongst them.
- The highest ranking winners attending will be invited to give oral presentations as time is available.
- To the extent space is available, all contestants who attend will be invited to display a poster of their work.
- Special sessions are arranged for contestants, teachers, parents, etc.
These activities are not yet finalized and may change. Nonetheless, this is a tremendous opportunity to present your work, meet some of the most important people in space development as well as your fellow contestants, and have a great time.
All participants will receive a certificate.
