The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced that its CubeSat Launch Initiative (CSLI) is now open for proposals for new missions planned between 2026 and 2029.
What are CubeSats?
CubeSats are small, low-cost spacecraft used by schools, non-profits, and NASA centers to access space. They come in standard sizes like 1U, 3U, and 6U and are used to test and develop new space technologies.
Who Can Apply?
According to NASA’s website, educational institutions, non-profits, and informal education institutions in the US can apply. The initiative focuses on workforce development and minority-serving institutions. Teams chosen will get guidance from NASA mission managers to help improve their hardware design and development.
Why Participate?
“CubeSats offer a hands-on opportunity for students to explore the space industry and potentially launch their careers,” said Jeanie Hall, CSLI program executive at NASA Headquarters. NASA selects CubeSat projects each year, giving priority to those that have educational value and help advance science, technology, and exploration. This initiative also helps with education and workforce development.
Important Dates and Details
NASA will accept proposals until November 15, and the selections will be finalized by March 14, 2025. Applicants need to fund the development of their CubeSats themselves.
NASA’s CubeSat Achievements
NASA has already launched over 160 CubeSats and selected missions from 45 states. Recently, eight CubeSat missions were launched on Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha rocket, including CatSat and KUbeSat-1, which are testing new technologies in space. Additionally, four CubeSats were deployed from the International Space Station (ISS) as part of NASA’s SpaceX 30th commercial resupply mission.
Conclusion
This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for educational and non-profit institutions to participate in space exploration and technology development. If your team is interested, start preparing your proposal now and take advantage of this exciting opportunity to work with NASA.
Stay tuned for more updates and details as NASA continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technology.