About the conference

We invite students to collaborate and develop creative strategies and technologies to address the growing challenge of space debris, aiming for a safer and cleaner orbital environment.

Space debris, or “space junk”, refers to defunct satellites, discarded rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or explosions orbiting earth. As the number of these debris items increases, the risk to operational satellites, human space missions, and the International Space Station (ISS) also rises. To ensure the sustainability of space for future generations, innovative solutions are needed to mitigate, manage, and reduce space debris.

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Possible Topics to Spark Creativity and Dialogue

During the hackathon, participants will have the chance to explore thought-provoking themes such as:

• How data sharing can improve debris tracking and collision avoidance
• The role of leadership in tackling space debris (whether through international bodies, governments, or private companies)
• The potential of refuelling as a solution to reduce orbital waste

These multidisciplinary discussions will encourage students from fields like physics, economics, law and policy, business and management, data science and analytics, environmental science and sustainability, and engineering to apply their unique perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to these challenges.

Why join

Join forces with talented individuals from diverse fields—law, business, IT, environment, and technical disciplines—to solve complex, real-world challenges. Together, you'll tackle critical issues in space sustainability, creating solutions that truly make an impact.

Compete for a cash prize and the opportunity to secure a summer internship at KSAT, a leader in satellite services and space sustainability.

All participants will also receive a certificate of attendance, showcasing their commitment to innovation and collaboration.

Who

Students from technical, programming, environment and entrepreneurial backgrounds and others with an interest in space and sustainability are welcome to apply as this is an interdisciplinary event.

How to sign up (and consent)

By signing up, you will required to fill out an application form containing your name, field of study and letter of motivation. By signing up, you also give your consent that you contact data will be forwarded to the project management at Norwegian Space Cluster (for no other purpose than to give you pracatical information about the hackathon).

Travel and accommodation

Travel and accommodation costs for travelling students will be covered up to 5000 NOK.

What is a hackathon?

The "Hackathon for Space" is a dynamic three-day event where students from various disciplines come together to tackle the pressing issue of space debris. Participants will work in teams to ideate, design, and propose innovative solutions to reduce or manage space debris, framing the problem through different lenses based on their unique backgrounds. With participants from different fields, the event encourages a multidisciplinary approach.

Over the course of the hackathon, students will engage in brainstorming sessions, collaborative workshops, and pitch presentations, aiming to develop practical, impactful strategies for a sustainable future in space.