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Completed TRL 3 (started at 1, targeting 3)
Develop an aid to orienteering for use by astronauts at the lunar south pole region that does not utilize power, electronics, or software.
Help NASA navigate in and around the lunar south pole by developing a low-tech orienteering device or by creating a method to survey and map the bottom of Shackleton Crater. If you can solve either or both of these challenges, you could win a share of the $50,000 prize purse and maybe your idea will land on the moon.
The goal of the Find Me on the Moon Challenge is to develop novel solutions for orienteering and navigation that can be used by astronauts at the lunar south pole region. Solvers can submit their concepts in one of the two focus areas.
For Challenge 1, NASA is looking for an orienteering tool to help astronauts navigate the lunar surface and return to their spacecraft. If you’re an expert in orienteering without a GPS or a space enthusiast, this challenge is for you. The solution must improve on past devices, offering ease of use, high accuracy, and not rely on highly advanced tech. As an example, Apollo astronauts used a cardstock solar compass, similar to a sundial, and a paper range scale for visual relative distance to the lander.
For Challenge 2, NASA seeks a reliable method to explore and map the Shackleton Crater at the lunar south pole. The solution must handle the harsh conditions, map the crater, analyze its contents, and send data back for future missions. Unlike Challenge 1, these solutions may utilize more advanced technologies, provided they do not depend on satellite-based navigation due to the unique challenges posed by the crater’s geography.
The "Find Me on the Moon Challenge" provided NASA with diverse, innovative navigation solutions for lunar south pole missions. It validated internal concepts, expanded ideation beyond internal teams, and fostered global participation. Valuable low-tech orienteering and mapping methods were identified, with potential for prototype development and integration into Artemis missions, enhancing astronaut safety and mission success.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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