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International Space Settlement Design Competition (ISSDC)
Mode
Hybrid
Eligibility
Class 8–12
Fee
Free
Duration
Qualifying rounds span several months, semi-finals are typically a weekend event, and international finals last multiple days.
About This Opportunity
The International Space Settlement Design Competition (ISSDC) is an annual global event that simulates working on an aerospace company's proposal team. High school students form 'companies' to design a space colony based on a Request for Proposal (RFP). This competition is supported by leading aerospace, engineering, and education organizations, including NASA.
Participants are typically high school students in grades 9 through 12, generally between 15 and 18 years of age. While most entrants are school-affiliated teams, independent teams are also welcome. Regional qualifying rounds, such as the Indian National SSDC, serve as a quarter-final for the international event, allowing students from across India to participate.
Students gain invaluable experience in space science, physics, mathematics, chemistry, environmental science, biology, computer science, writing, speaking, and art. The competition cultivates technical competence, management skills, teamwork, and the ability to prepare effective documentation. It also provides a deep appreciation for the intricate relationships between technical products and human needs.
The ISSDC culminates in international finals, frequently held at the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA. Winning teams from regional competitions are invited to collaborate in multinational teams to design a new space settlement, presenting their detailed proposals to a panel of esteemed industry and academic experts.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 8–12
- Age Range
- 14 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Open to high school students in grades 8-12 (typically ages 14-18) who are enrolled in full-time high school education. Participants can be part of school-affiliated or independent teams.
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Benefits
- Opportunity to design a space settlement in a simulated aerospace industry environment
- Develop critical STEM, management, and teamwork skills
- Gain national and international recognition
- Enhance college applications for STEM fields
- Network with industry experts, engineers, and former participants from around the globe.
- Potential to qualify for the International Finals held at NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA.
- Receive certificates of participation and achievement from recognized aerospace and educational bodies.
Academic Details
Difficulty: Advanced
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