Runway-to-Space Spaceplane Challenge
This suborbital research and academic competition will offer U.S.-based research teams the opportunity to engage with Dawn Aerospace on designing, testing and flying their payloads aboard Aurora.
Aurora differs from traditional launch opportunities in that it is a runway-launched, rocket-powered aircraft designed for repeatable, high-cadence flights—enabling research teams to test, refine and fly again within the same program.
Submissions are limited to Oklahoma universities. This competition provides a pathway for your team to partner with Oklahoma State University in developing and submitting a competitive proposal. After reviewing the competition guidelines, submit the form below to discuss partnership opportunities with OSU.
Competition now open! Apply below.
Key Dates
- Notice of intent: August 15, 2026
- Submission deadline: 5:00 PM CDT September 25, 2026
- Finalists Announced: October 23, 2026
- Selected winners Announced: November 13, 2026
- Payload Flight-Ready Deadline: September 6, 2027