Are you interested in space, science, technology, coding, innovation, or solving real-world problems? The NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 is an exciting global opportunity for students, professionals, developers, scientists, designers, entrepreneurs, and space enthusiasts from around the world. The NASA Space Apps Challenge is an annual global hackathon organized by NASA, where participants work individually or in teams to solve real-world challenges using NASA data and data from international space agency partners. The 2026 NASA Space Apps Challenge will take place on November 14–15, 2026. More details are below.
About NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026
The NASA Space Apps Challenge brings together people from different backgrounds and skill levels to collaborate on innovative solutions related to Earth and space.
You don’t need to be a NASA intern or an expert programmer to participate. NASA states that all ages, skill levels, and professional backgrounds are welcome.
During the two-day hackathon, participants can work on challenges covering areas such as:
- Space exploration
- Earth and climate
- Satellite and space data
- Software development
- Science and research
- Agriculture
- Technology and innovation
- Storytelling and creative solutions
What Will You Do?
Participants will form teams and select a challenge to work on. Teams then use NASA’s open data and other available resources to develop a solution.
Depending on the challenge, your project could be a:
- Website or web application
- Mobile application
- Software prototype
- Data visualization
- Scientific concept
- Educational tool
- Creative or storytelling project
- Other innovative solution
The objective is to use creativity, teamwork, and technology to address real-world challenges on Earth and in space.
Awards & Recognition
Participants have the opportunity to have their projects evaluated through the NASA Space Apps judging process. Outstanding projects can receive Global Awards, providing international recognition for their ideas and work.
Who Can Participate?
The NASA Space Apps Challenge welcomes people with different backgrounds and experience levels. You can participate if you are:
- A student
- A developer or programmer
- A scientist or researcher
- An engineer
- A designer
- An entrepreneur
- A data enthusiast
- An artist or storyteller
- A technology enthusiast
- Interested in space and science
No specific academic degree is required. NASA specifically states that people of all skill levels and professional backgrounds are welcome.
Is It Open to International Students?
Yes. The NASA Space Apps Challenge is a global event with participants from countries and territories around the world. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to participate.
Is NASA Space Apps Free?
Yes. Participation in the NASA Space Apps Challenge is free of charge.
Can I Participate as a Team?
Yes. You can create or join a team.
Teams can bring together people with different skills, which is especially useful for developing a strong project. For example, a team could include:
- A programmer
- A designer
- A researcher
- A data analyst
- A storyteller
- A subject-matter expert
Certificate
Participants who successfully submit a project can receive a NASA Space Apps participant certificate. The official submission process includes requirements that teams must meet before their project can be judged.
How to Apply for NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026?
The link to the official website is below.
APPLY NOW FOR THE NASA SPACE CHALLENGE
