NASA’s challenge is finding elements that support the logistics and capabilities required for a sustainable permanent human presence beyond Earth’s vicinity.

For this specific Challenge, the Solver is asked to focus on those particular elements of “pioneering space” needed to establish a continuous human presence on Mars. The Solver is asked to describe one or more Mars surface systems/capabilities and operations needed to achieve this goal that are, to the greatest extent possible, technically achievable, economically sustainable, and minimize (ideally, eliminate) reliance on support from Earth.

This is a Theoretical Challenge that requires only a written submission. The Challenge award will be contingent upon theoretical evaluation of the submission by the Seeker. Awards will be paid out to the top submissions that meet or exceed the criteria below. Awards will be paid out in increments of $5,000 (minimum) up to a potential total award pool of $15,000. The awards are not guaranteed, however; the Seeker expects to pay out 1-3 awards in total assuming the submissions meet the criteria.

To receive an award, the Solvers will not have to transfer their exclusive intellectual property (IP) rights to the Seeker. Instead, they will grant to the Seeker a non-exclusive license to practice their solutions.

Go here to learn more and apply for this challenge.