NASA Launches Orbital Clarity Challenge to Measure Atmospheric Drag

• NASA is seeking low-cost, scalable solutions to measure thermospheric density, pressure, or drag in low Earth orbit.
• The initiative aims to improve monitoring of space weather effects on orbital drag caused by solar activity.
• Up to four winners will share $500,000 in prizes and receive a complimentary flight test for their solutions.
• The challenge process spans three phases, aiming for flight-ready results within 12 months.

Challenge Background

• The project is the sixth installment of the NASA TechLeap Prize series.
• Key collaborating entities include:
  • NASA Heliophysics Division (which studies atmospheric density changes and space weather).
  • Flight Opportunities program.
  • Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation.

Goals and Requirements

• Developing inexpensive technology capable of being produced in high quantities.
• Systems must be suitable for deployment as hosted payloads on commercial spacecraft.

Timeline and Participation

• Challenge Open Date: August 19, 2026.
• Phase 1 Registration Deadline: October 28, 2026.
• Phase 1 Submission Deadline: November 11, 2026.
• Winners proceed to develop their concepts into flight-ready solutions over a one-year period.