The upcoming 6th CASSINI Hackathon is set to tackle major global challenges by leveraging European Union (EU) space data. This event, with its central theme of “Space for International Development and Humanitarian Aid,” aims to drive innovative solutions that can support sustainable infrastructure development, strengthen food security and clean water access, and provide insights into forced migration patterns. The hackathon will be held across 11 European locations from the 3rd to the 5th of November.
Participants from diverse backgrounds will be furnished with the necessary tools and knowledge to harness EU space data and signals. They are expected to brainstorm and develop solutions aligned with the three primary themes:
1. Sustainable Infrastructure Development: With a focus on creating solutions to support renewable energy, transportation, mobility, and connectivity infrastructure, participants will explore how space data can further sustainable national infrastructure development, offering increased economic growth and critical services.
2. Food Security and Clean Water Access: The hackathon seeks to challenge its participants to conceive innovative applications of space technology that can enhance preparedness for humanitarian crises and efficiently manage vital resources.
3. Forecasting Forced Migration: Solutions developed under this theme should assist authorities in predicting population movements from vulnerable regions. The objective is to determine how space data can optimize logistics, resources, and transportation during challenging times.
Stefan Schneider, Space Downstream Entrepreneurship Officer at EUSPA, emphasized the potential of EU space data in addressing global challenges that affect countries worldwide. He stated that the EU Space Programme and its primary initiatives, including Copernicus, Galileo, and EGNOS, present a vast reservoir of data. This data can be pivotal in tasks such as infrastructure development, improving food security, providing clean water, and planning humanitarian initiatives.
In the Netherlands, the hackathon’s top team will be awarded €650, with a matching donation going to a humanitarian cause of their choosing. Another €200 prize awaits the team with the standout presentation. Additionally, both teams will gain recognition on Groundstation.space, a premier European platform promoting satellite data use.
Organizers of the Netherlands edition include the dotSPACE foundation and RoyalHaskoningDHV. While dotSPACE steers the application of Earth Observation data to address pressing issues in sectors like public health, food security, and agriculture, Royal Haskoning DHV brings together over 6,000 engineering professionals, all focused on building a sustainable future.
