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The organisers are seeking innovative and scalable construction technologies that utilise lunar regolith or other in-situ materials to create the infrastructure necessary for future operations on the lunar surface. The competition is not solely focused on the technological aspect. Submitted solutions must demonstrate a credible scenario for applying the idea to the Moon, identify potential users and recipients of the technology, and outline a path to its scaling, commercialisation, and future use in lunar missions.

The Space Resources Challenge supports project development from the conceptual phase to real-world technology demonstration. The best five teams will have the opportunity to validate their solutions through the construction of prototypes and tests in the summer of 2027. Each team selected for the field test will receive a €50,000 ESA Cooperative Agreement to mature its technology and prepare for testing at ESA LUNA.

The Challenge winner will receive a €500,000 ESA Cooperative Agreement to advance its technology towards commercialisation and a potential future in-space demonstration.

The Space Resources Challenge is open to students, academic teams, research institutes, start-ups, and companies developing technologies related to space exploration and the use of extraterrestrial resources. The organisers encourage interdisciplinary teams that combine the expertise of academia and industry.

To participate in the Space Resources Challenge, apply through the ESA’s Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP).

For more information on the third edition of the Space Resources Challenge, go to:

• the website of the Polish Space Agency (POLSA) 
• the official website of the Challenge
• the Open Space Innovation Platform