Aerospace Jam
Build the Future of Flight
Join the NASA-sponsored high school robotics competition where you'll tackle real-world aerospace challenges with drones, completely free for all teams!
What is Aerospace Jam?
Aerospace Jam is a competition for high school teams across Wisconsin to use drones on a NASA-inspired simulated Lunar mission. The program is co-sponsored by the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium and the Milwaukee Bucks. Our goal is to recruit students from diverse backgrounds and cultivate a welcoming and inclusive event that will foster meaningful interactions among teammates and teams.
Aerospace Jam is a drone competition that challenges high school teams to solve problems inspired by NASA's real-life missions. This year's theme is "Mars Sample Return".
The competition features a variety of challenges with multiple difficulty levels, ensuring that both new and experienced teams can find a suitable challenge to feel accomplished. It's not just about winning; it's about problem-solving, collaboration, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology.
For in-depth information on the current competition season, please read the docs. You can also find more about the competition details, the full event schedule, and answers to frequently asked questions. We can't wait to see what you'll build!
Why Participate?
Gain invaluable skills, meet industry mentors, and have an unforgettable experience.
Real-World Skills
Develop your coding, engineering, and design skills by working on a project with real-world applications.
Teamwork & Collaboration
Learn to work effectively in a team, manage a project, and communicate complex ideas with your peers, and help others, both on and off your team.
Industry Connections
Network with professional engineers, managers, designers, and recruiters from leading aerospace and tech companies, including NASA!
Low Cost of Entry
Where other competitions can cost thousands of dollars to get started in, Aerospace Jam is completely free for all teams, funded instead by WSGC and industry grants. We provide you with everything you need!
Our Partners
Event Details
Date
April, 2026 Specific date and time will be announced soon!
Location
Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI
Who Can Participate?
Teams of up to 10 students, with a mentor age 18+, regardless of school affiliation.
Competition Day Schedule
Coming soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum team size? +
Teams can have a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10 student members, plus one adult mentor (teacher or parent).
Are there any restrictions on the hardware we can use? +
For the core sensor kit, you must use the parts we provide. We do this to ensure a level playing field for all teams. If any of your provided parts are not working, we will provide replacements, but you must use the official parts. For all other non-sensor and challenge-related aspects of your drone, you are free to use any hardware you like, as long as it complies with the safety and size constraints in the documentation.
What is the registration fee? +
There is none! Aerospace Jam is 100% for all teams and mentors involved, and is fully funded by WSGC and industry grants.
Where can I find the documentation? +
All information about the competition, including rules and scoring, can be found in our documentation. A link will be available here on September 1st.
Can multiple teams share a mentor? +
Yes! A single adult mentor can have up to 5 teams under them, to accommodate high schools or community organizations with lots of students.
Any other questions? Consult the documentation.
Can You Conquer the Red Planet?
The Mars Sample Return mission needs the best and brightest. Form your team, accept the challenge, and show us what you've got. The future of space exploration is in your hands.