NASA launches AMPERE Challenge for mid-power Hall thrusters

NASA has launched the AMPERE Challenge, inviting commercial companies in the United States to develop and demonstrate mid-power Hall effect thruster prototypes.

The effort is intended to speed the maturation of electric propulsion capabilities and check real-world performance in NASA test facilities.

The effort targets Hall effect thruster systems rated from 3 kW to 7 kW. They are identified as critical capabilities for missions involving satellites, defense and exploration.

A Hall-effect thruster converts electricity and inert gas into force.

Eligibility is limited to companies incorporated in the United States whose primary place of business is also in the United States.

The challenge can name up to two winning teams. Listed funding amounts are 500,000 USD and 250,000 USD, and winning teams receive access to NASA testing and technology.

The challenge has three phases, and rules and eligibility details are posted at https://ampere.nasatechmaturation.org/.

For readers tracking the lunar industry, the relevant point is that exploration missions are among the named uses for these thruster systems, alongside satellite and defense work.

NASA is using the challenge to mature U.S. commercial Hall-effect thrusters, validate their performance in NASA test facilities and give winning teams access to NASA testing and technology. The stated aim is to lay a foundation for future NASA and commercial missions.

The challenge lists registration dates of 2026-11-09 and 2027-01-27.