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NSS Gerard K. O'Neill Space Settlement Contest
Mode
Online
Eligibility
Class 6–12
Fee
$15
Duration
Annual contest, submissions typically due in February.
About This Opportunity
The NSS Gerard K. O'Neill Space Settlement Contest is an annual international competition hosted by the National Space Society (NSS). It was formerly known as the NASA Ames Space Settlement Contest or simply the NASA Space Settlement Contest. It invites students up to 12th grade from around the world to conceptualize and design permanent free-space settlements. Submissions can include designs, research papers, essays, stories, models, or artwork, focusing on various aspects of space settlement and supporting systems, such as mining, space hotels, and economic or social issues.
The contest aims to foster scientific thinking and creativity in young minds, encouraging them to explore solutions for humanity's future in space. Since its inception in 1994, the contest has seen significant participation from students globally, including India. It offers a valuable platform for students to engage with cutting-edge space exploration concepts and gain recognition for their innovative ideas in the field of space settlement design.
Participants can compete individually or as part of small (2-5 students) or large (6-12 students) groups, with entries judged separately based on grade level and team size. The contest emphasizes original work, prohibiting plagiarism and requiring explicit identification and citation of any AI-generated content. This competition provides a unique platform for students to apply physics, biological, and geological concepts to real-world challenges of space habitation.
This contest is a direct descendant of Professor O'Neill's original thought experiment, designed to inspire the next generation of space-faring citizens. It encourages students to envision their future living, working, and playing in space, and to create realistic space art that can be used for promoting space exploration.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 6–12
- Age Range
- 11 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Open to students in grades 6-12 (ages 11-18) worldwide. Participants can be individuals or part of small (2-5 students) or large (6-12 students) groups. Submissions must focus on permanent free space settlements and be original work. AI-generated content must be cited, except for Literary Merit entries where it is strictly prohibited.
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Benefits
- Opportunity to win the Grand Prize and be featured on the contest website.
- Chance to receive the Herman Rubin Memorial Scholarship of $5,000 USD for attending ISDC.
- Scholarships of $500 USD for top entries in Artistic and Literary Merit categories.
- Certificates of participation and merit for eligible contestants.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific research skills.
- Gain exposure to cutting-edge space exploration concepts and network with professionals.
- Enhance academic profiles for higher education and future career prospects in STEM.
- International recognition from the National Space Society.
Academic Details
Difficulty: Advanced
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