2015 NASA Student Launch Request For Proposals
The NASA Student Launch (SL) is a research-based, competitive, and experiential exploration project that provides relevant and cost effective research and development. Additionally, NASA Student Launch connects learners, educators, and communities in NASA-unique opportunities that align with STEM Challenges under the NASA Education Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement line of business. NASA’s missions, discoveries, and assets provide opportunities for individuals that do not exist elsewhere. The project involves reaching a broach audience of colleges, universities, and non-academic teams across the nation in an 8-month commitment to design, build, launch, and fly a “Mars Sample” and vehicle components that support the MAV on high-power rockets to an altitude of 3,000 feet above ground level (AGL). The challenge centers on highly reliable and autonomous sample insertion, preparation, launch, and deployment. Supported by the Human Exploration and Operations (HEO) Mission Directorate, Centennial Challenges Office, and commercial industry, SL is a unique, NASA-specific opportunity to provide resources and experiences that is built around a mission, not textbook knowledge.