Help NASA explore how lunar regolith could be used in the construction of future lunar habitats! The Build the Moon Challenge (BTMC) engages students in designing their own lunar concrete using simulant Lunar regolith. The Build the Moon Challenge (BTMC) is structured into three fundamental parts: (1) Develop: students experiment with different Regolith Concrete Mixtures to see what works the best, (2) Demonstrate: students use their lunar concrete to create various habitat infrastructure (bricks, 3D printed walls, and landing pads), and (3) Design: students design a Lunar Habitat using their concrete mixture to improve its construction and mission parameters. The BTMC not only helps NASA learn to explore the Moon and Mars more sustainably, but it helps our construction and engineering industries here at home learn more about sustainable construction materials.

Build the Moon (Middle and High School):

Teams of up to one classroom group. One adult “coach”.

COST: $463 (includes shipping)

Have questions or need additional intomation?

For additional information on this program from the Institute of Competition Sciences, click on the following link:

• Build the Moon – Activity Guide

If you have questions, please contact CTSGC Program Manager April Michaud.

Important dates for both programs:

All funded teams must contribute a $50 registration fee payable to NASA CT Space Grant. The remaining costs will be paid by CT Space Grant. The cost for any additional experiment supplies (i.e. seeds, pots, soil or additives) will be the team’s responsibility, and can be through in-kind donations.  

Before you complete your application, consider the following questions:

Do you have a letter of support from your organization or school?

Your application requires that a letter of support be provided with your application. This may be a letter from your school administration (principal, district administrator, etc.) or organization leadership to indicate their awareness of the program, especially as it relates to the space or facility to conduct the experiments and staff/faculty time to run this program. When applying, you will be asked to upload a letter of support.

How will your organization supply the 1:1 Match required for this grant?

For all CTSGC funds provided, we require 1:1 match, which can be staff time, or in-kind (non-Federal) donations. This information needs to be documented in the budget worksheet section of this application. For your planning purposes, program costs are listed above for each program. Acknowledgement of the 1:1 match must be included in your letter of support.

Ready to apply?

Interested Team Leaders (“coaches”) should submit their Application before Aug 10, 2025. Notification of awards will take place in August.

Have questions or need additional intomation?

For additional information on this program from the Institute of Competition Sciences, click on the following link:

• Plant the Moon – Educator Quick Guide

If you have questions, please contact CTSGC Program Coordinator April Michaud.