NASA seeks inventors for revolutionary lunar wheel designs

On September 3, 2025, NASA announced the start of the Rock and Roll Challenge, an initiative aimed at finding innovative designs for wheels that will be used in future lunar exploration missions. This challenge was initiated in response to the increasing demands of a new era in lunar exploration, where rovers will need to traverse difficult terrains consisting of razor-sharp regolith while enduring extreme cold temperatures during the lunar nights. NASA's quest for a new wheel is not merely academic; it represents a crucial component of exploration that could significantly enhance the mobility and operational capabilities of lunar missions. The challenge encourages participation from a diverse group of inventors, ranging from student teams and hobbyists to established aerospace firms, highlighting NASA's commitment to inclusivity and innovation in the field of space technology. The competition is structured in three phases, beginning with the evaluation and rewarding of initial concepts, followed by prototype funding and testing of the most promising designs. This open-ended approach allows for maximum creativity and problem-solving capabilities, aiming to foster breakthroughs in mechanical engineering that meet the unique requirements of extraterrestrial conditions. In the second phase of the challenge, successful teams will receive support for developing prototypes, which will eventually be put through rigorous testing mimicking lunar terrain in a live NASA obstacle course at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. The selection of effective wheel designs will play a significant role in future lunar missions, potentially influencing the way rovers navigate and carry payloads on the lunar surface. NASA has expressed that the best ideas stemming from this competition could set the pace for innovative advancements in mobility systems. As an incentive, NASA will be awarding a total of $155,000 in prizes, encouraging as many participants as possible to contribute their ideas. The enrollment for phase one is open until November 4, 2025, with subsequent phases extending into the following year. This timeline provides ample opportunity for inventors and engineers to develop and refine their concepts, ultimately aiming to enhance human exploration of the Moon and beyond. With the challenge, NASA not only seeks to improve the functional aspects of lunar rovers but also hopes to inspire a spirit of innovation and collaboration within the global engineering community, setting the stage for the next wave of space exploration.