BOSS - Space Ventures Competition

This summer, take part in a bold mission: making life in space livable. No problem is too small, and no talent goes unnoticed—we need innovators like you to tackle space-related challenges. 

Through our engaging series of virtual workshops, you'll explore entrepreneurship, unleash your creativity, and collaborate with like-minded problem solvers. Whether you're designing the future of space habitats or reimagining everyday essentials for zero gravity, this is your chance to turn ideas into impactful businesses. Ready to launch?

BOSS - Space Ventures Details: Participants in the BOSS - Space Ventures program will have the opportunity to compete for funding to propel their business, including a grand prize of $10,000 and the possibility of $5,000 prizes. These awards are courtesy of the Joan & Chester Luby Microgrant Prize Program for BOSS. 

You can apply for BOSS—Space Ventures with or without a business idea. If you need inspiration, please see the resources below! 

Expanding Horizons: Beyond the rewards, the BOSS - Space Ventures program highlights Columbus and Ohio State University as a thriving hub for low earth orbit space innovation. By participating in this competition, you're not just competing for prizes—you're contributing to the growth of an entrepreneurial ecosystem in our community.

Looking Ahead: As seasons change, so do the stakes. In the fall, students can compete in the BOSS fall program, where the first prize increases to $20,000, offering even more incentive to turn your entrepreneurial mission into reality. 

Your Mission – Explore Challenges to Solve

Ready to be inspired? Browse the resources below. Please note that you do not need a business idea to apply for BOSS - Space Ventures. 

Watch

• Life aboard the International Space Station (YouTube)
  • In a nutshell: Overview of daily astronaut activities, from eating to exercising.
  • Use it for: Understanding routine challenges astronauts face.
• Canadian Astronaut Chris Hadfield’s Videos (YouTube)
  • In a nutshell: Fun and engaging videos explaining how astronauts eat, sleep, and even cry in space.
  • Use it for: Sparking curiosity with real astronaut experiences.
• Netflix Documentary: "The Wonderful: Stories from the Space Station"
  • In a Nutshell: Real astronaut interviews and footage from the International Space Station (ISS).
  • Use it for: Understanding teamwork and mental resilience in space.
• National Geographic’s “One Strange Rock” (hosted by Will Smith)
  • In a nutshell: Features astronauts’ perspectives on Earth and space.
  • Use it for: Exploring psychological and philosophical aspects of space travel
• How Astronauts Exercise in Space (NASA)
  • In a nutshell: Explains why and how astronauts work out to stay healthy.
  • Use it for: Addressing health challenges in microgravity.

Read

• NASA’s Human Research Program
  • In a nutshell: Research on the effects of space travel on the human body.
  • Use it for: Understanding medical and psychological stressors.
• "An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth" by Chris Hadfield
  • In a nutshell: A firsthand account of astronaut training and life in space.
  • Use it for: Real insights into problem-solving in space.
• "Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery" by Scott Kelly
  • In a nutshell: Memoir of Scott Kelly’s year-long mission aboard the ISS.
  • Use it for: Deep dive into space adaptation challenges.
• "Packing for Mars" by Mary Roach
  • In a nutshell: A humorous look at space travel, including food, hygiene, and psychology.
  • Use it for: Understanding the quirky, unexpected issues of space life.

Listen

• Houston, We Have a Podcast (NASA)
  • In a nutshell: NASA’s official podcast featuring astronaut interviews.
  • Use it for: Learning about astronaut experiences directly from NASA professionals.
• Orbital Path (NPR)
  • In a nutshell: Discusses space science, including human challenges in space.
  • Use it for: Exploring the future of human spaceflight.