5th Nasa International Space Apps

Challenge commences at IST 

Islamabad

The three-day 5th Nasa International Space Apps Challenge in Pakistan began at the Institute of Space Technology, Islamabad (IST) on Friday. Nasa and other space agencies around the world are organising the annual International Space Apps Challenge at more than 135 locations worldwide, including New York, host of the event’s Global Main stage. Institute of Space Technology, Islamabad (IST) is the sponsor and host of this International event and more than 20 teams from all over Pakistan are participating in this event.

Inaugural ceremony of the Nasa International Space Apps Challenge from April 22 to 24, 2016 was held here at Institute of Space Technology, Islamabad. Space Apps Curator Shakeel Shafiq opened the session. The keynote remarks were delivered by the event head Dr. Najam Abbas, Assistant Professor, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Head of Electrical Engineering Department, Dr. Qamar ul Islam.

Nasa International Space Apps Challenge is an intense 48-hours global weekend code-a-thon for developers, designers, engineers, entrepreneurs, astronomers and enthusiast to develop mobile applications, software, hardware, data visualization and platform solutions that could contribute to space exploration missions and help to improve life on Earth.

The challenges focus on real-world design problems and on making our planet and universe accessible, visual and fun to explore. This year, many challenges represent NASA mission priorities in six areas include Technology, Aeronautics, Space Station, Solar System, Earth and Journey to Mars.

More than 200 data sources, including data sets, services and tools are available for this Space Apps Challenge. This event brings together tech-savvy citizens, scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, and students to help solve problems and questions relevant to space exploration and broader subjects that impact life on Earth.

A competitive environment is created to boost the design skills of students as well as give them exposure to the innovative ideas. It is not just a competition but a training program where students can foresee the solutions to future problems with the help of their professional mentors.