Plant the Moon Challenge

Plant the Moon Challenge asks teams to design and run an experiment that improves edible-crop growth in lunar or Martian regolith simulant. Teams choose variables such as water, nutrients, fertilizer, crop type, or growth setup; gather measurements during the grow period; analyze results; and submit a final report and presentation. Spring 2026 registration ran from October through January. The official team fee was $229 plus shipping and included 2 kilograms of simulant, safety supplies, pots, pH strips, and a digital project guide; teams supply seeds and other experiment materials.