NASA Launches AMPERE Electric Rocket Challenge
The challenge invites U.S. companies to develop mid-power Hall effect thruster prototypes for $500,000 in total prizes.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Space
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NASA has launched the Advanced Mid-Power Electric Rocket Challenge, inviting U.S. commercial companies to develop mid-power Hall effect thruster prototypes rated at 3-7 kW. The challenge offers $500,000 in total prizes and spans three phases.
Why it matters
Government and industry stakeholders have identified mid-power Hall effect thruster systems as critical capabilities for satellite, defense, and exploration missions. NASA aims to accelerate the maturation of electric propulsion capabilities.
The challenge awards up to two winning teams a maximum of $250,000 each from a $500,000 prize pool, for mid-power Hall effect thrusters rated at 3-7 kW. Eligibility is limited to companies incorporated in the United States, and the specific phase performance criteria are not detailed in the extraction.
The players
NASA
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is the U.S. government agency responsible for civil space exploration and research, and it is running the challenge to mature electric propulsion technology.
The details
Companies will develop and demonstrate mid-power Hall effect thruster prototypes, with performance validated in NASA test facilities. Winning teams also gain access to NASA testing and technology as the challenge moves through its three phases.
Timeline
Registration for the AMPERE Challenge opens November 9, 2026.
Registration for the AMPERE Challenge closes January 27, 2027.
The Big Picture
The AMPERE Challenge extends NASA's ongoing electric propulsion development by shifting prototype work toward U.S. commercial firms rather than solely NASA-led efforts. It targets the 3-7 kW range that the source identifies as critical for satellite, defense, and exploration missions.
Companies that build mid-power Hall effect thrusters could win up to $250,000 per winning team and gain access to NASA testing and technology. Progress from this challenge may eventually support the satellite and mission hardware used in future commercial and government space work.
The takeaway
Commercial space companies interested in electric propulsion have a defined route to NASA-validated testing and cash prizes through this challenge. Prospective entrants should review the eligibility requirements, which limit participation to U.S.-incorporated companies with a primary place of business in the United States.
What happens next
Registration for the AMPERE Challenge closes January 27, 2027, after opening November 9, 2026.
Further reading
Explore more on Space coverage of propulsion and mission technology.
More information
Review the rules, eligibility requirements, and registration details on the AMPERE Challenge registration page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NASA.
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