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Plant the Moon Challenge

Science
Engineering
Leadership

Institute of Competition Sciences

Spring semester (Annual)

The Plant the Moon Challenge is a NASA-connected space exploration program where high school students tackle hands-on challenges inspired by the Artemis mission to return humans to the Moon. Running each spring as part of a larger annual program (which also includes the fall Build the Moon Challenge), participants work with lunar and Martian regolith concepts to develop real solutions for sustaining life and exploration beyond Earth. Students engage with the same materials and scientific questions that NASA scientists and engineers face as humanity prepares to establish a long-term presence on the Moon. It is a unique opportunity for aspiring scientists and engineers to contribute meaningful thinking to one of the most exciting chapters in space exploration history.

Visit plantthemoon.com

Skills You'll Build

Scientific Research

Designing studies, testing hypotheses, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Problem Solving

Breaking down a challenge and working through it methodically to a solution.

Critical Thinking

Evaluating information carefully before drawing a conclusion or making a decision.

Project Management

Planning tasks, timelines, and resources to get a project done on schedule.

Team Leadership

Guiding a group toward a shared goal and keeping everyone moving together.

Related Careers

Aerospace Engineer

Students design and test solutions for lunar agriculture and exploration using NASA's Artemis program framework.

Environmental Scientist

Challenge focuses on leveraging local lunar and Martian materials to enhance exploration capabilities sustainably.

Mechanical Engineer

Students engineer systems and structures for planting and growing on the Moon and Mars.

Quick Facts

Grade Levels
9th - 12th
Best For
Space exploration enthusiasts

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