Challenge students to solve real-world problems.  

Ideal for middle and high school students, these free challenges will invite students to propose solutions to real-world problems, from space junk to pollution.  

Through their problem solving, participants will build science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) skills and share their creativity. It’s all about their voice, their ideas, and their community.  

A young Black woman holds a device, as young Black girls look on with rapt attention. Adult Black men look on in the background.

Current Challenge

What real-world problem could you solve in your community?

  • Using science, technology, engineering, art, or math to solve the problem.
  • You can use one or more.

Join the challenge today! We will only accept 100 submissions. The deadline for applications is April 1, 2026.

Sign Up Now

How to Participate

1. Sign up to participate. 

Sign Up Now

 (A parent or guardian will need to complete and upload this release form.) 

2.  Receive an email with a link to the challenge. 

Don't delay! Only first 100 submissions accepted. 

Rules

  1. You must be 13 or older to participant
  2. Join the challenge as an individual. No teams!
  3. Be sure to follow all the instructions and deadlines.

Full digital challenge rules

What You'll Get

  • All participants will receive a certificate
  • Select submissions may be on display in the Bezos Learning Center when it opens 

Timeline

  • Applications Open: March 9, 2026
  • Deadline for Applications: April 1, 2026
  • Challenge Submissions Open: April 6, 2026
  • Deadline for Challenge Submissions: May 4, 2026

1.    How do I submit an entry? 

Sign up to participate.  You will receive an email with a link to the challnege.  

2.    Is there an entry fee?
No. Entry to the challenge is free.

3.    What do we receive for participating in the challenge?
You will receive a participation certificate as a testament to the participant's efforts and contribution to helping their community. 

Challenges may be included in our youth displays in the new Bezos Learning Center at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

4.    What grade levels are eligible to enter the challenge?
Grade 6-12th students are eligible to enter the challenge. 

5.    Can I work in a team?
No. You may enter as an individual.

6.    How many entries are you accepting?
100

More questions? 
Throughout the length of the challenge, participants can email us with questions. Museum staff will publish routine updates to this webpage.

The logo for the National Air and Space Museum with the text "Bezos Learning Center" next to it.

Bezos Science and Technology Challenges for Students are brought to you by the Bezos Learning Center.

More About the Bezos Learning Center