2025 Middle School Program
2025 Middle School Summer Program
Galactic Greenhouse
Program Overview
Zero Robotics introduces students to programming, robotics, and space engineering through hands-on experience with Astrobee Satellites. Delivered by MIT Media Lab’s Space Enabled Group, the Aerospace Corporation, NASA, and others, this program offers students unique access to the International Space Station through engaging, collaborative competition.
Game
Students program Astrobee Satellites to navigate challenges and conserve resources autonomously. Each year's game addresses a real NASA/MIT problem and encourages strategy and creativity.
The new Astrobee platform replaces the earlier SPHERES system. The game runs online via a web-based interface and simulator, culminating in an ISS live broadcast final.
Schedule
June 30 – August 15, 2025
Flexible in-school or club-based participation formats available.
Important Dates
07/11/25 (Fri) – Practice Code Due
07/15/25 (Tue) – Field Day
07/16/25 (Wed) – Qualification Round / Alliance Due
07/17/25 (Thu) – Alliance Announcements
07/28/25 (Mon) – Student Code Due (student deadline)
08/08/25 (Fri) – ZR Finals
Program Days/Time
Schools/programs have scheduling flexibility.
Team Composition
5–25 middle school students per team plus an adult advisor.
Cost
The program is free and web-based — no special hardware or software required.
Authorized Country
Only U.S.-based teams are eligible this year.
Waiver of Liability
Participation indicates agreement that MIT, partners, and sponsors are not liable for any damages resulting from involvement in the program. Submission of code, applications, or attendance at events constitutes full acceptance of Zero Robotics Program Rules.
