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NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026

NASA · Global — 450+ Local Events worldwide + Universal Virtual Event · Remote

About

The NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 is NASA's annual global hackathon, bringing together people from different backgrounds to use NASA and space-agency open data to develop solutions to real-world challenges related to Earth and space.

The 2026 edition takes place on 14–15 November 2026 under the theme “The Next Frontier.” Participants can work on challenges covering areas such as software development, storytelling, astrophysics, space exploration, agriculture and more.

Participants can attend one of more than 450 Local Events or join the Universal Event virtually if there is no suitable local event nearby.

NASA is joined by 17 Space Agency Partners, including ISRO, ESA, JAXA, the Canadian Space Agency and others.

Eligibility & requirements

  • All ages and skill levels are welcome.
  • Open to people from different professional and educational backgrounds.
  • Participants can join individually or as part of a team.
  • Teams can have 1–6 members for projects eligible for Global Judging.
  • Participants must register for the event.
  • Participants under 18 must be registered by a parent/legal guardian and accompanied during the event.
Participants can have backgrounds in areas such as:
  • Software development
  • Data science
  • AI/ML
  • Science
  • Engineering
  • Design
  • Storytelling
  • Astronomy
  • Space technology

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work with NASA and Space Agency Partner open data
  • Solve real-world Earth and space challenges
  • Collaborate with an international community
  • Participate in one of the world's largest annual hackathons
  • Opportunity to have projects considered for Global Awards
  • Certificate of participation for participants who submit a project by the deadline
  • Opportunities for learning, networking and showcasing innovative solutions.

    • Documents

    No traditional academic documents are required for registration.
    Participants will need to provide:
    • Account/registration information
    • Team information, if participating as a team
    • Project information
    • Required project submission details
    • Demo presentation/video where applicable
    For Global Judging eligibility, projects must respond to an official NASA challenge and satisfy the project submission requirements.

    How to apply

  • Click the “Register” / “Apply” button above.
  • You will be redirected to the official NASA Space Apps Challenge registration page.
  • Create or log into your NASA Space Apps account.
  • Register for the 2026 NASA Space Apps Challenge.
  • Choose a Local Event or the Universal Virtual Event.
  • Join individually or create/join a team.
  • Participate in the hackathon and work on an official challenge.
  • Submit your project according to the applicable submission requirements.

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