NASA launches 2027 Gateways to Blue Skies contest for student infrastructure inspection ideas

NASA’s Aeronautics Division has opened the 2027 Gateways to Blue Skies competition, calling on two-to-six-member college teams to envision new aircraft-based methods for examining the nation’s land-based infrastructure. Participants must submit a written proposal and a two-minute video by February 22, 2027, after optionally filing a non-binding Notice of Intent by October 12. Eight teams will be awarded $9,000 each and invited to present updated concepts at a May 2027 forum, with the chance to secure an internship with NASA Aeronautics the following academic year.

The contest, overseen by NASA’s Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation within the Research and Technology Mission Directorate, is funded through the University Innovation Project and managed on NASA’s behalf by the National Institute of Aerospace. Organizers emphasize that airborne inspection tools could reduce costly shutdowns and improve safety for aging bridges, tunnels, railways, highways and electric grids.