A really cool free hackathon using space tech to tackle climate change is coming up in Canberra

A hackathon offering up to $10,000 for a startup ideas that tackle climate change via space will be held in Canberra next month.

SpaceHack, on June 16-17, is a collaboration between the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) and UNSW Canberra. Participants will have 30 hours over the two days to collaborate and compete for cash prizes as they develop ideas solve the big issues of climate change using space technology before pitching them to a judging panel.

A team of experienced mentors will be on hand for guidance and support, including Dr Andrew Sutton, a former laser specialist for NASA, Courtney Bright, a space systems engineer at CSIRO, and Arvind Ramana, director of space technology at the Australian Space Agency.

CBRIN CEO Petr Adamek said representatives from leading space companies will take part too, amid short workshops to help participants generate, evolve and pitch ideas to win the vote of the judges.

“SpaceHack provides up-and-coming space innovators, including researchers and university students, with an opportunity to sharpen their innovation skills, build their networks, and provides access to incredible mentors and industry resources,” he said.

UNSW Canberra Dean  Professor Emma Sparks said SpaceHack could be fundamental to addressing the challenges of climate change.

“I am excited to see what participants come up with. I am proud that academics from UNSW as well as industry experts will be on hand to give guidance and mentoring to participants to work towards ideas to create a better future for Australia and the world,” she said.

Everyone involved in the free hackathon will have the opportunity to work closely with industry, academic and business experts to create impactful pitches of their space-themed ideas to address climate change for the chance to win up to $10,000 in cash.

This hackathon is open to everyone and Adamek said they’re keen for anyone with an interest in space, climate action, innovation and technology to take part.