Igniting pupils’ cosmic curiosity through the Star Innovators Challenge

We have liftoff! Star Academies is delighted to launch its 2026 Star Innovators Challenge, inviting pupils across the country to explore the wonders of our universe through this year’s British Science Week theme – Curiosity: What’s your question? 

Curiosity is where every great discovery begins. It’s the reason scientists explore, inventors create and engineers design. It all starts with a simple question – Why? How? What if? Could we? 

This year’s Star Innovators Challenge invites pupils to ignite their curiosity as they discover the secrets of our solar system and imagine scientific solutions to challenges inspired by space exploration. Across Star schools, pupils will take part in exciting STEM projects as they answer astronomical questions that combine scientific understanding with creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking: 

Key Stage 3 – How do robots help us to explore space? 

Space exploration often relies on machines that have been engineered to handle extreme conditions on distant planets. Therefore, KS3 pupils have been challenged to design robotic explorers with carefully considered features and a real scientific purpose, demonstrating how innovation and intelligent design help us to boldly go where no man has gone before. 

Key Stage 4 – Could humans really live on Mars? 

KS4 pupils will confront one of the most compelling questions of modern science. They will explore the harsh realities of Martian life – from radiation and low gravity, to lack of water and oxygen supply – and design a sustainable Red Planet colony that could help humans survive and thrive millions of miles from Earth. 

The links below provide further details about the challenges and the fantastic science prizes that will be awarded to the winning entries: 

‘Robot Recon’ – Key Stage 3 (Year 7, 8 and 9) 

‘Habitat for Humanity’ – Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11) 

How to Enter 

Parents will receive a letter from the school explaining how to enter the competition. 

All entries must be submitted to schools by midday on Monday 27 April 2026. Submissions must include the child’s name, year group and form/tutor group. 

Each school will review their pupils’ entries and shortlist two pieces of work in each age category. The shortlisted entries will be submitted to the Star Academies national final, where they will be judged alongside entries from other Star schools across the country. The top three entries in each category will all be awarded a prize. Good luck to all our enthusiastic space explorers! 

Added By: Chamber Communications | Date Added: 16th Mar 2026 | Posted In: Latest News