NASA backs 18 ideas that could change how we explore space.

Early-stage research funding supports concepts well before they become missions.

By TomorrowNews · AI-assisted briefing
Source published 29 Jul 2026 · Briefing published 6 September 2026

Collage of artist concepts proposed by the 2026 NIAC awardees · NASA

NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts program announced 18 Phase I awards, with a combined value of $3.2 million. Each award provides up to $175,000 for a nine-month investigation.

The program supports exploratory aerospace concepts, from solar-system exploration to understanding the universe. NASA emphasizes that these are early studies, not approved missions.

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