NASA announces $1 million moon base challenge

(CNN) - NASA is challenging students to help design the future of life on the moon.

The space agency announced a $1 million competition Sunday for high school and college students across the country.

Teams will develop ideas for a future moon base, including power systems, construction, communications and astronaut safety.

NASA plans to build a base near the moon’s south pole where astronauts could live and work.

The goal is to establish a permanent human presence on the moon and eventually prepare for missions to Mars.

Students don’t need specialized engineering experience to participate.

Registration is open through January 25.