NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026

NASA Space Apps Challenge is an annual global hackathon that invites people with an interest in space and science to tackle real-world problems using NASA and Space Agency Partner data. Participants work from challenge prompts created by NASA subject matter experts and can explore a wide range of themes, including storytelling, software development, astrophysics, space exploration, agriculture, and more.

The event is designed to bring together a worldwide community of builders, thinkers, and collaborators. People can join an in-person local event or take part virtually through the Universal Event, then form or join a team and work together on a project over the course of the hackathon.

Teams are limited to six participants. Registration, event selection, and team formation are all part of the participation process. After building their project, participants submit it through the team project page to be considered for Global Judging and to receive a participant certificate.

The challenge welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, making it an accessible entry point into space, science, and innovation.