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OAIRE

Fly your experiment to space in 2027!

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