NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 : Global Hackathon for Innovators Worldwide

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Applications for NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 opens on August 26, 2026. The NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 is set to bring together innovators, students, researchers, developers, scientists, designers and problem-solvers from around the world for a two-day global hackathon focused on using space and Earth science data to address real-world challenges.

The NASA Space Apps Challenge is the largest annual global hackathon. This two-day event sparks innovation by mobilizing an engaged community of technologists and space science enthusiasts to answer the questions that benefit humanity, drive exploration, and exemplify community-driven, gold-standard science.

During the hackathon, participants gather at hundreds of in-person and virtual Local Events to respond to challenges authored by NASA subject matter experts. These challenges range in complexity and topic, tasking participants with everything from creating designing sustainable recycling systems for Mars to developing informational apps and software programs. Participants utilize NASA’s free and open data and its Space Agency Partners’ space-based data to address these real-world problems on Earth and in space.

After the hackathon, project submissions are judged by subject matter experts and winners are selected for 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.

NASA Space Apps Challenge Program Details

Participants interested in joining the 2026 challenge should take note of the registration date.

Registration opens: August 26, 2026
Hackathon dates: November 14–15, 2026
Format: Global hackathon
Eligibility: All ages, skill levels and professional backgrounds

Registration information and participation details will be made available through the official NASA Space Apps website.

Eligibility Criteria

The NASA Space Apps Challenge offers opportunities for students, technologists, and citizen scientists to better understand how to utilize NASA open data to respond to today’s most pressing science and space exploration challenges.
No matter your age, skill level, or professional background, when you participate in the NASA Space Apps Challenge, you join a global community that embraces collaboration to develop projects and tools that improve life on Earth and in space.
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 info@spaceappschallenge.org.

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.
December 2026: Global Nominees, Global Finalists, and Honorable Mentions are announced.
January 2027: Global Winners are announced!

NASA Space Apps Challenge Benefits

The 2026 challenge offers participants more than a conventional hackathon experience. It provides an opportunity to work with real scientific data, collaborate across disciplines and become part of an international community focused on innovation.
Participants can gain experience in problem-solving, teamwork, research, technology, data analysis, communication and project development.

How to Apply for NASA Space Apps Challenge

Interested participants should visit the official NASA Space Apps Challenge website when registration opens on August 26, 2026.
Participants are encouraged to explore the available challenges, identify areas where their skills and interests align, and consider forming multidisciplinary teams.
The NASA Space Apps Challenge 2026 represents an opportunity for people around the world to work with NASA data, collaborate across borders and develop creative solutions to challenges affecting both Earth and space exploration.

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Application Open: August 26, 2026