Aviation Week's Space Tech Challenge Awards 2026:
Your Innovation Could Shape the Future
This isn't just recognition—it's transformation.
The Aviation Week Space Tech Challenge Awards, in partnership with Space Tech Expo USA, connect execution-ready innovations with the government agencies, prime contractors, and commercial operators actively seeking them.
From lunar operations to Mars missions, the space industry faces nearly 200 validated capability gaps. The Aviation Week Space Tech Challenge Awards recognize solutions already in development — prototypes tested and advancing toward deployment.
Key Dates
🚀November 2025 — Applications open
🚀February 28, 2026 — Final application deadline
🚀March-April 2026 — Evaluation period
🚀April 2026 — Finalists announced
🚀June 3, 2026 — Winners announced at Space Tech Expo USA in Anaheim, Calif.
What We’re Seeking
Solutions addressing NASA-identified capability gaps, developed between January 2024 and December 2025, with clear evidence of implementation potential.
Four priority areas:
- Colonization – Sustainable Human Presence Beyond Earth
- Industrialization – Space Resource Utilization & Manufacturing
- Commercialization – New Space Economy Infrastructure
- Protection & Defense – Security & Situational Awareness
Why Apply
Industry Recognition
- Feature article in Aviation Week & Space Technology
- Stage presentation at Space Tech Expo USA
- Digital showcase across Aviation Week platforms
Business Development
- Direct introductions to government agencies and prime contractors
- Networking with strategic sourcing teams and C-suite executives
- Inclusion in supplier discovery initiatives
Ongoing Visibility
- Winner’s circle networking events
- Speaking opportunities at industry conferences
- Alumni network for continued collaboration
Evaluation Team:
Robert Chambers, Lockheed Martin
Debra Emmons, CTO, Aerospace Corp.
Jeremy Fix, ispace Technologies, U.S.
Robert Katz, CEO & Executive Director, World Innovation Network (WIN)
Russ Matijevich, Matijevich International Consulting
Aviation Week Team Members:
Joe Anselmo, Editor-in-Chief / SVP, Content
Irene Klotz, Senior Space Editor
Vivienne Machi, Military Space Editor
Garret Reim, Space and Emerging Technologies Editor
Robert Wall, Executive Editor, Defense & Space
Graham Warwick, Executive Editor, Technology
Questions about the contest, the evaluation team or sponsoring? Contact Mike McClary: mike.mcclary@aviationweek.com
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