Here's the timeline...
Register
Do you have an idea to develop or adapt technology for monitoring aerosols in a habitat in space or a community here on Earth? You must first register no later than Wednesday, December 13, 2017, at 5:00 PM Central.
Apply
Individuals, teams, and organizations that meet eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. Ideas should focus on easy to maintain, small, and affordable aerosol sensor technology. Apply no later than Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at 5:00 PM Central.
Get Feedback
Each valid application receives scores and comments from five Evaluation Panel judges, using a trait-scoring rubric with four criteria: instrument technology, longevity, physical properties, and features for Earth & Space application.
Build a Prototype
Based on the rank order of submissions, three Finalists will be named. Finalists will be awarded $50,000 each to build a functioning sensor according to their submitted proposals within a six-month period. Prototypes will be delivered to NASA by September 30, 2018.
Test a Prototype
Finalists will attend a demonstration and testing period in October 2018 to compete for the Grand Prize at the NASA Glenn Research Center. The Selection Committee will determine the Winner who will receive a $100,000 award.
Unless someone has found a lichen that changes colour or something else like that out of left field, it's going to take a special individual or a lab that's already set up to be able to get anywhere with this ... IMHO.