The 2025-2026 Dream with Us Design Challenge invites middle school students to tackle pressing issues in agriculture through innovative drone technology. As the agricultural sector grapples with challenges such as climate change, pest management, and production efficiency, the integration of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) presents a transformative opportunity. This initiative not only emphasizes the importance of technological adaptation in agriculture but also aims to inspire the next generation of innovators. By engaging students in the design and conceptualization of drones tailored to specific agricultural needs, the challenge seeks to foster creativity and problem-solving skills while addressing real-world issues that impact food security and sustainability.
The challenge encourages teams of 2-4 students to develop drone designs that enhance agricultural practices, focusing on areas like crop monitoring and resilience against environmental stressors. Participants will present their concepts to NASA experts, showcasing the relevance of their designs to local agricultural contexts. Additionally, teams will create educational materials for younger students, promoting awareness of the agricultural industry's challenges and the role of technology in overcoming them. This initiative not only cultivates STEM skills among participants but also positions them as active contributors to the future of agriculture, highlighting the critical intersection of technology and sustainability in addressing global food production challenges.
