November 7, 2025 – ARISS has selected four educational organizations to host an amateur radio contact with astronauts on the International Space Station during the first six months of 2026:

• The Lewis Center for Educational Research in Apple Valley, California
• Hilltop Elementary School in Canfield, Ohio (first-time winner)
• Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas (first-time winner)
• Walnut Grove Elementary School in Suwanee, Georgia (first-time winner)

The selectees earlier this year submitted winning proposals that included integrating space and communications concepts into their curriculum in the months leading up to the contact and making the experience meaningful for the entire school or organization. The dates for the contacts and the participating crew members will be announced closer to the events.

ARISS is currently accepting applications through November 14 for ISS contacts that will take place in the second half of 2026. You can find out more about the proposal process and get helpful guidance, including our proposal guide here or through the links on the ARISS website.
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