To all 2026 contestants: Thank you!
The submission window for the 2026 Genes in Space contest closed on April 10th, and we are, again, humbled by the number of students who have joined us in space biology exploration. This year’s Genes in Space contest received a record number of submissions. To every student who poured their curiosity, late nights, and scientific ambition into a Genes in Space proposal this year—thank you!
A record Genes in Space year in numbers
The submission window has officially closed, and along with a quieter inbox, that brings something much more powerful: awe and gratitude. This year’s contest received 980 applications from 1,317 students, representing 369 schools in 40 states and territories.
To our record number of contestants: We’re awestruck. It takes vision to look up at the sky and see a biology question. By participating in this competition, you have stepped into the role of a space biologist, tackling the mysteries and challenges of life in space.
To our tireless teachers: Thank you for inspiring us. This record campaign would not be possible without the work of the educators who mentor these students and help them design an experiment that expands our understanding of space biology at the molecular level. The time and support you give your students are immeasurable, and we thank you for your tireless efforts.
What happens next for Genes in Space contestants
We are living in a pivotal era of space exploration. As we prepare to return to the Moon and beyond, the bottleneck isn't just rocket engineering or support systems - it’s also biology. The questions you asked in your submissions are the same ones being discussed in the aerospace industry and by researchers at the International Space Station (ISS).
Our judges now have the unenviable task of reviewing your inspiring work. But regardless of the final standings, remember this: Asking scientific questions is a victory in itself. You have learned to bridge the gap between an intuition and a formal hypothesis. You have practiced scientific communication. You have shown the world that you are ready to lead the next generation of discovery.
During the second week of May, we will reveal the recipients of our Constellation Awards, our Junior Scientist Awards, and our Semifinalists. Stay tuned for these announcements!
Keep exploring, keep questioning, and never stop looking up.
Ad astra,
The Genes in Space team
