AI Insight
NASA is launching the Fly Foundational Robots (FFR) mission, which will deploy a seven-degree-of-freedom robotic arm to low Earth orbit and provide access to select U.S. researchers for conducting experiments. The competitive selection process involves three phases: eligibility registration (closing September 23, 2026), white paper submission (closing October 2, 2026), and simulation/validation testing at Goddard Space Flight Center for up to 15 finalist teams. Successful teams will be awarded on-orbit experiment time using the FFR robotic arm.
Why it matters
This initiative democratizes access to space-based robotic experimentation, allowing academic researchers to test technologies and conduct experiments in the unique microgravity environment without bearing the full cost of a dedicated space mission. The program could accelerate innovation in space robotics, materials science, and orbital operations by engaging a broader research community.
Understand the Science
The Fly Foundational Robots (FFR) mission will launch a robotic arm, with seven degrees of freedom, to low Earth orbit. NASA is opening access to the robotic arm to a select group of U.S. researchers — principal investigators, post-doctoral researchers, professors, and highly qualified graduate students — who have a compelling experiment and the capability to execute it.
All participants must submit eligibility documentation at registration. Once your eligibility is reviewed and confirmed, you will receive access to the Phase 1 submission portal.
- Phase 0 — Eligibility Registration
Begin by completing your eligibility registration. Submission documentation is required at this stage as part of federal competition requirements. Registration closes at 12:59 p.m. ET (11:59 p.m. CT) on Sept. 23.
- Phase 1 — White Paper Submission
Submit a white paper proposing a short, focused experiment using the FFR robotic arm. Up to 15 teams advance to Phase 2. Submission closes at 12:59 p.m. ET (11:59 p.m. CT) on Oct. 2. - Phase 2 — Simulation & Validation
Invited participants conduct simulation and validation testing, including visits to Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.
Prize: Teams that pass validation will receive an offer of on-orbit experiment time on the FFR Mission
Challenge Registration Open Date: May 20, 2026
Challenge Registration Close Date: September 23, 2026
For more information, visit: https://spaceroboticistchallenge.com/
Source: NASA Space Roboticist Challenge