NASA's CubeSat Launch Initiative (CSLI) is now accepting proposals for a new round of CubeSat missions. CubeSats are small spacecraft that provide a low-cost way for educational institutions, non-profits, and NASA centers to access space. Eligibility and benefits The initiative is open to US educational institutions, non-profits, and informal educational institutions, with a focus on workforce development and minority serving institutions. Selected teams will receive guidance from NASA mission managers and have the opportunity to strengthen their skills in hardware design and development. "CubeSats offer a hands-on opportunity for students to explore the space industry and potentially launch their careers," said Jeanie Hall, CSLI program executive at NASA Headquarters. "NASA selects CubeSat projects annually, prioritizing those with educational value that also advance our understanding of science, technology, and exploration, while informing our approach to education and workforce development." Proposal deadline and selection process Proposals must be submitted by November 15, and selections will be made by March 14, 2025. Applicants are responsible for funding the development of their CubeSats. Recent CubeSat missions Eight CubeSat missions recently launched on Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket, including CatSat and KUbeSat-1, which are testing new technologies in space. Four additional CubeSats were deployed from the International Space Station as part of NASA's SpaceX 30th commercial resupply mission. About CubeSats CubeSats are small spacecraft that come in standardized sizes (1U, 3U, 6U) and can be used to demonstrate and mature technologies in space. NASA has launched over 160 CubeSats since the initiative began and has selected missions from 45 states, Washington, and Puerto Rico.
