NASA opens $500,000 spacecraft thruster challenge

Sole source: NASA opened registration on 9 November 2026 for its Advanced Mid-Power Electric Rocket (AMPERE) Challenge, inviting US commercial companies to develop and demonstrate Hall-effect thruster prototypes. The competition offers $500,000 in total prizes.

The agency said government and industry stakeholders had identified mid-power thrusters as critical capabilities for satellite, defense and exploration missions. A Hall-effect thruster uses electricity and inert gas to produce force that can propel a spacecraft.

Who can enter and what teams can win

NASA says the challenge seeks prototypes in the 3–7 kW power range. Entrants must be incorporated in the United States and maintain their primary place of business there.

NASA says up to two winning teams can each receive up to $250,000 in cash prizes across three phases, as well as access to NASA testing and technology. NASA says it aims to accelerate the maturation of electric propulsion, validate real-world performance at its test facilities and lay the groundwork for future NASA and commercial missions.

Registration closes on 27 January 2027. NASA’s challenge announcement directs prospective entrants to further registration, rules and eligibility information.