Participant FAQ

Last Updated: 16 January 2025

What is the NASA Space Apps Challenge

The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is the largest annual global hackathon. This two-day event creates innovation through international collaboration by providing an opportunity for participants to utilize NASA’s free and open data and its Space Agency Partners’ space-based data to address real-world problems on Earth and in space.

During the hackathon, NASA Space Apps Challenge participants around the world gather at hundreds of in-person and virtual Local Events to address challenges submitted by NASA Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). These challenges range in complexity and topic, tasking participants with everything from creating artistic visualizations of NASA data to conceptualizing and developing informational apps and software programs. After the hackathon, project submissions are judged by space agency experts and winners are selected for one of 10 Global Awards.

The NASA Space Apps Challenge inspires collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Participants have gone on to form companies inspired by their projects, develop professional careers via employment opportunities or skill development, and network with like-minded individuals in their local community and around the world.

What are the dates for the NASA Space Apps Challenge?

The 2025 NASA Space Apps Challenge will take place October 4-5, 2025.

Who can participate in the NASA Space Apps Challenge?

All ages, skill levels, and professional backgrounds are invited to participate in the NASA Space Apps Challenge! When you participate, you join a global community that embraces collaboration across borders, sectors, and cultures.

Whether you’re a student, professional, technologist, engineer or artist, the NASA Space Apps Challenge offers opportunities for anyone with an interest in space and science.

What is the minimum age for participants?

The NASA Space Apps Challenge is open to all ages! However, participants who are under the age of 18 must be registered for the event by a parent or legal guardian and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times during the event.

Does it cost anything to participate?

There is no cost to participate in the NASA Space Apps Challenge. If you are asked to pay money to participate in any aspect of a NASA Space Apps event, do not pay anything and please report to [email protected].

How can I connect with the NASA Space Apps community?

Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to connect with your NASA Space Apps community! Share your excitement and hackathon journey using #SpaceApps.

Important Dates

More information coming soon. Sign up for an account and check your Space Apps Messages for regular updates.

EVENT TIMELINE

October 2025
  • October 4-5, 2025: The NASA Space Apps Challenge is hosted at Local Events around the world and virtually at the Universal Event.
After the Hackathon
  • Judging occurs. Experts from NASA, Space Agency Partners, and industry leaders will evaluate the projects and select the winners. See the Judging and Awards Guide for details about the judging process and Global Awards.
  • Global Winners are announced!
  • The 2026 dates for the NASA Space Apps Challenge are announced.