<p>The Conrad Challenge is a global student innovation competition run by the Conrad Foundation and hosted at Space Center Houston, presented by Equinor. Teams of 2–5 students aged 13–18 design solutions to real-world problems across five categories: Aerospace and Aviation, Cyber-Technology and Security, Energy and Environment, Health and Nutrition, and The Water Challenge.</p><ul><li>Eligibility: ages 13–18 during the competition year; teams of 2–5 with an adult coach</li><li>Format: hybrid, with online Activation and Innovation stages followed by the in-person Innovation Summit at Space Center Houston</li><li>Timeline: Activation 27 Aug – 29 Oct 2026, Innovation 29 Oct 2026 – 7 Jan 2027, Summit 21–24 Apr 2027</li><li>Prizes: category champions earn Pete Conrad Scholar recognition, international trips, and college scholarships</li><li>Cost: the Activation Stage is free; the Innovation Stage costs USD 499 per team (financial aid available) and the Summit USD 499 per attendee, excluding travel</li></ul><p>Register as a team in the Conrad Portal during the Activation Stage, which opens in late August.</p>