NASA's Gateways to Blue Skies (GBS) Competition
Submit ideas to improve the reliability and efficiency of NASA's infrastructure.
NASA's 2027 GBS Competition asks teams of two to six (2-6) college students to conceptualize innovative airborne platforms for inspecting land-based infrastructure. The goal is to implement the solution by 2035 to improve safety, reliability, efficiency, and cost.
Based on reviews of proposals and 2-minute video submissions, up to 8 finalist teams will be selected to receive $9,000 and advance to Phase 2. In the second phase, the finalists will present at a forum in May 2027. Eligible winners will receive NASA internships.
| Key information | |
|---|---|
| Sponsoring agency | National Aeronautics and Space Administration |
| Start date | 08/18/2026 11:00 AM ET |
| End date | 2/23/2027 11:59 PM ET |
| Challenge type |
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| Prizes | Total cash prizes: $72,000 Phase 2: NASA internships |
| Contact | blueskies@nianet.org |
Apply to the Gateways to Blue Skies Challenge
These federal prize competitions are conducted pursuant to the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, as amended by the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2017. For complete rules, eligibility requirements, and terms and conditions, please visit the hosting agency's competition page.
LAST UPDATED: August 13, 2026
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