NASA has announced two competitions to improve scientific discovery needed for the future of space exploration.
The Centennial Challenges comprise the Tether Challenge to develop a super strong lightweight material that could be used in a space elevator, and the Beam Power Challenge to develop wireless technology that could power robots from a distance.
The initial prize is $50,000 for each challenge, and a second round worth $100,000 will be announced in 2006.
Innovations from these competitions should help support aerospace materials and structures advance. It can also lead to new approaches to robotic and human planetary surface operations and even futuristic concepts such as space elevators and solar power satellites. Read more at VNU Net
