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NASA Seeks Geniuses and Visionaries

Posted by Zonk on from the plenty-of-those-around-here,-right? dept.

Dotnaught writes "The NASA Institute for Advanced Concepts has put out a call for 'revolutionary ideas to advance the Vision for Space Exploration.' Would-be visionaries are invited to submit their ideas by February 13, 2006, as explained in this Call for Proposals. Phase 1 grants range from $50K to $75K. Phase 2 grants go up to $400K. Sample grand visions include how to create a 'self-sustaining, human presence throughout the solar system' and 'truly autonomous robotic operations for exploration and habitation.'" If any Slash users end up with the grants, we call dibs on interviews.

5 of 246 comments (clear)

  1. You can take my idea and run with it! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Genetically modify humans for space travel. Characteristics include low gravity condition and extended life DNA programming. As soon as I get off of this LSD trip I will try to submit it.

  2. Obligatory by SpinJaunt · · Score: 5, Funny

    Not exactly rocket science is it? oh..

    --
    /. is good for you.
  3. This is the sort of thing we were trained for. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Interesting

    I'm an astrophysicist, currently not working in academia. This is the sort of thing we dream of - the opportunity to pitch our ideas to someone who is interested in and understands the value of science.
     
    I once had a high tech compnay tell me they "didn't have much call for physics", I didn't have the heart to tell them it was physics than made their computers work and not magic.
     
    I know I'll be working on my ideas to submit. Thanks for the chance NASA!

  4. Re:Who doesn't? by mboverload · · Score: 5, Funny
    > what large organization *doesn't* look for geniuses and visionaries.

    The RIAA? Do I win?

  5. I've Gotten Two... by Jordin · · Score: 5, Informative
    Seriously. I've gotten two NIAC phase 1 awards; the final report on one has been cited previously on Slashdot here. The other was for an interstellar propulsion concept; details here

    NIAC has put out these calls once or twice a year since the late 90's. It's a cool organization, and I'm not saying that just because they've given me grants -- they've funded lots of really good work in many fields. Now if only NASA proper would follow up on more of it...