Students work directly with NASA engineers and mentors to develop and propose aviation concepts, with their final reports published on NASA's Technical Report Server.
The 2026 AF Concept Design Experience is an 8-week virtual program for high school students interested in aerospace. Participants will learn about aerospace opportunities within NASA's Aviation Systems Division at Ames Research Center, which focuses on air traffic management and advanced flight simulators. Students will engage with mentors and experts, attend seminars, and explore cutting-edge aviation topics like UAS Traffic Management and Urban Air Mobility. The core activity involves working in teams of six students with two NASA mentors to develop and propose an aviation concept or application to solve a real-world “wicked problem” using the “double diamond design process.” The program culminates in a 1-hour final presentation to the Division, and the final report will be hosted on NASA's Technical Report Server for public access, providing a valuable addition to a high school resume.
Students are expected to devote approximately 4 hours daily to the program, engaging in design workshops, mentored projects, and facility tours.
The ideal student is a US citizen in 10th or 11th grade at the time of application, with an interest in aerospace, aviation, and solving complex real-world problems.
Virtual
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