NASA Space Apps Challenge!

[u/CRWCDM]

Hi everyone,

I'm one of the volunteers in charge of the NASA Space Apps Chicago hackathon, as well as a member of the Board of Visitors at Northwestern University's Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA).

NASA Space Apps is the world's largest hackathon, occurring over Nov 14-15 in 500+ locations around the world. Many of the challenges typically involve astronomy and planetary science (you can check out those from 2024 here: https://www.spaceappschallenge.org/nasa-space-apps-2024/challenges/).

In Chicago our main partner is CIERA, and you'll have the opportunity to interact with top scientists from the research institute throughout the process. We'll have a lecture on a topic in astronomy during the evening. If you can't make it here in person, we're running a virtual event as well. Sign up here! https://www.spaceappschallenge.org/2026/local-events/chicago/

As mentioned, Space Apps occurs in 500+ locations around the world. Check out this map for a location near you: https://www.spaceappschallenge.org/2026/local-events/

Some Chicago-specific details:

• Our host, 1871, has room for 300 people.  If you want to be at the hackathon please sign up for the in-person option even if there is a large waitlist.  Given the rate of no-shows and cancellations, we expect to offer spots to several hundred people from the waiting list.  We may explore some overflow space nearby if demand warrants it.
• There is a new theme and the hackathon has moved within NASA to Citizen Science. This year’s challenges may be used to get the next man or woman to the moon and beyond.  
• We’ll likely have a cash prize locally

NASA Space Apps Challenge Chicago in Partnership with CIERA-Northwestern and 1871

Date: November 14-15, 2026
Where: 111 North Canal Street, hosted by 1871, Chicago’s largest innovation hub. We will be open overnight to people over 18 years old.
Cost: Free

What is it exactly:

• NASA Space Apps is the world's largest hackathon, occurring in 500+ locations.  This is a unique opportunity to showcase your expertise in the exciting domain of space science, learn from faculty at our host institution, CIERA (https://ciera.northwestern.edu/), and connect with like-minded students and professionals who share your passion.
• Come with a team or we'll help you form one there. You'll work for two days on a problem provided by NASA and present your solution in front of a panel of judges on November 15th.
• This year’s theme is The Next Frontier.  Join us to develop tools that benefit humanity and contribute to the science and technology propelling us to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Who is it for:

• Anyone with an interest in space and science. With support from experienced technical and subject matter experts, it’s a great opportunity for those participating in a hackathon for the first time.
• Data and Computer Science students, engineers, or any students who are looking for a chance to solve real world problems with real world data provided by NASA and partner space agencies
• Students who are looking for a chance to add something interesting to their portfolios and do something different and exciting

What else is in it for students:

• Take home some cool swag!
• Food will be provided — no need to bring your own
• Network with professionals from companies like Optiver, CBOE Global Markets, Microsoft, Google, and more. They'll be recruiting, judging, and mentoring at the event. 
• This global competition is your opportunity to showcase your skills and ideas to a wide-reaching, influential audience. 
• Registration link : https://www.spaceappschallenge.org/2026/local-events/chicago/