2025 RASC-AL Competition

The 2025 RASC-AL (Revolutionary Aerospace Systems Concepts—Academic Linkage) Competition is an annual competition hosted by NASA. It is designed to engage universities and academic institutions in the exploration of innovative concepts for future space missions. Sponsored by NASA's Strategy and Architecture Office within the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, along with the Space Mission Analysis Branch at NASA Langley, the competition is administered by the National Institute of Aerospace. The primary objective of the competition is to encourage student teams to design and develop innovative solutions for challenges related to space exploration. The theme for the 2025 competition focuses on "Sustained Lunar Evolution," with specific reference to developing technologies for lunar exploration, including electric power generation, regolith extraction, metal production, and propellant production. Teams are expected to assume certain operational conditions and design their systems around these assumptions, such as the availability of electric power and varying demands for resource production. The competition offers students the opportunity to solve real-world problems, collaborate on multi-disciplinary teams, and contribute to the future of human space exploration. By focusing on mission concepts, teams are expected to create designs that are viable and scalable, keeping in mind practical constraints such as cost, feasibility, and system integration. Throughout the competition, students are mentored by NASA engineers and researchers who provide insights into space mission design and technological development. The program offers various forms of support, including stipends, mentorship, and access to NASA facilities for testing and development. Furthermore, the competition fosters collaboration between universities and NASA, enhancing academic research and providing exposure to students about the opportunities and challenges in the aerospace industry. While this is an academic-focused competition, its impact stretches beyond university campuses, providing a pipeline for future talent in the aerospace sector. Eligibility for the competition is limited to teams from accredited U.S. universities and colleges. Teams must consist of graduate and undergraduate students, and they must be advised by faculty members. Each participating team is also required to submit a proposal that details their design concepts, and selected teams will present their designs to NASA professionals. The evaluation process considers both the innovation and practicality of the designs, with winners potentially receiving funding and other support for further development.

It is important for applicants to adhere to the timeline and deadlines, as late submissions will not be considered.