International Hackathon on Advanced Aerospace Materials for Extreme Environments

International Hackathon on Advanced Aerospace Materials for Extreme Environments
Dates: June 13–15, 2026
Mode: Online
Organized by: Wings of Aero
Convenor: Ms. Suguna B — Co-Founder & CBO, Wings of Aero

1] About the Hackathon

The International Hackathon on Advanced Aerospace Materials for Extreme Environments brings together innovative minds to address real-world challenges in next-generation materials used in space missions, hypersonic flight, planetary exploration, and deep-space operations. This global competition encourages students, researchers, and innovators to create breakthrough concepts in designing materials that withstand extreme temperatures, high radiation, micrometeoroid impacts, corrosive planetary atmospheres, and long-duration space exposure.

Participants will work on futuristic aerospace material solutions that can enhance structural performance, safety, reliability, and sustainability across diverse mission profiles. The hackathon promotes scientific curiosity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and material innovation critical for humanity’s next steps in space.

2] Problem Statements / Tracks

Track 1: High-Temperature Materials for Hypersonic Vehicles

Problem: Hypersonic vehicles experience extreme aerodynamic heating (>2000°C), often exceeding the limits of conventional materials.
Expected Solution: Propose advanced thermal protection materials, coatings, or composites with high thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and structural integrity.

Track 2: Radiation-Resistant Materials for Deep-Space Missions

Problem: Spacecraft materials degrade under intense cosmic rays and solar radiation.
Expected Solution: Suggest materials or shielding systems that enhance radiation tolerance while keeping mass low.

Track 3: Lightweight Structural Composites for Launch Vehicles

Problem: Reducing mass while maintaining strength is a major challenge in rocket design.
Expected Solution: Develop concepts for new lightweight composites (e.g., CFRP, nano-enhanced materials) with improved load-bearing and fatigue performance.

Track 4: Materials for Extreme Cryogenic Conditions

Problem: Propellant tanks and systems using cryogenic fuels suffer from cracking, thermal shock, and brittleness.
Expected Solution: Design materials or hybrid structures with high cryo-toughness and minimal thermal expansion.

Track 5: Ablative Materials for Re-Entry Systems

Problem: Spacecraft re-entry generates extreme heat flux causing ablation, erosion, and thermal stress.
Expected Solution: Propose new ablative materials or self-healing heat shield concepts with improved heat absorption and durability.

Track 6: Dust-Resistant Materials for Lunar & Martian Environments

Problem: Lunar and Martian dust causes abrasion, electrostatic adhesion, and mechanical interference in equipment.
Expected Solution: Develop surface coatings or materials that resist abrasion, repel dust, or reduce ionized adhesion.

Track 7: Anti-Corrosive Materials for Harsh Planetary Atmospheres

Problem: Venus, Titan, and Europa have corrosive elements that degrade spacecraft materials.
Expected Solution: Recommend corrosion-proof materials or protective layers suitable for long-duration missions.

Track 8: Micrometeoroid & Debris Impact-Resistant Materials

Problem: Space debris can puncture spacecraft surfaces even at small sizes due to high velocities.
Expected Solution: Propose impact-resistant material systems or multi-layer shielding architectures.

Track 9: Sustainable & Recyclable Aerospace Materials

Problem: Aerospace materials often generate waste that is costly and environmentally harmful.
Expected Solution: Innovate energy-efficient, eco-friendly materials or recyclable composites for sustainable space systems.

Track 10: Individual Innovation Track

Problem: Open challenge for students to propose any innovative idea related to advanced aerospace materials for extreme environments.
Expected Solution: Any unique concept that demonstrates originality, technical depth, and potential real-world application.

3] Event Schedule (Three-Day)

Day 1 – June 13, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Inaugural Ceremony & Keynote on Future Aerospace Materials

• 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Problem Statement Briefing & Team Orientation

• 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Hackathon Work Session – Phase 1

• 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Mentor Interaction Round

Day 2 – June 14, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Hackathon Work Session – Phase 2

• 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Prototype/Concept Development

• 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Progress Review & Expert Feedback

Day 3 – June 15, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Final Development & Submission

• 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Team Presentations

• 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Jury Evaluation

• 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Valedictory Ceremony & Results Announcement

4] Eligibility & Participation Rules

Eligibility

• Open to students, researchers, innovators, and early-career professionals worldwide.

• Team size: 2–4 members.

Participation Rules

• All work must be original and developed during the hackathon.

• Teams must maintain professionalism and academic integrity.

• Strict adherence to submission guidelines and deadlines.

• Plagiarism or unethical practices will result in disqualification.

• Respectful communication and positive collaboration are expected.

5] Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation & Creativity – Originality of the idea and scientific novelty.

2. Practical Application / Social Impact – Relevance and usefulness to aerospace industry or planetary missions.

3. Technical Implementation – Engineering feasibility, clarity of method, and scientific depth.

4. Scalability & Feasibility – Long-term potential and adaptability.

5. Presentation Quality – Clarity, completeness, and professional delivery.

6] Prizes & Recognition

• Top 10 Winners:
  Receive USD 1000 worth vouchers under the “Idea to Startup Scheme” of SUKISH GROUP.

• Top 3 Teams:
  Their ideas will be shared with major companies/research organizations for seed-funding opportunities, including:

  • NASA Materials Research Lab

  • ESA Advanced Materials Division

  • ISRO Materials & Metallurgy Group

  • Boeing Research & Technology

  • Airbus Defence & Space – Materials Innovation Unit

• Additional Benefits:

  • Certificates of Participation for all.

  • Special Innovation Awards during WOA International Awards 2026 Series.

  • Opportunity to showcase at a related WOA International Conference.

  • Selected ideas will be published as abstracts in WOA International Journal.

7] Registration Section

For Indian Teams (4 Members):

Registration Fee: ₹499
Link: https://rzp.io/rzp/OIdx3sUB

For International Teams (4 Members):

Registration Fee: USD 50
Link: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GQX8AYUCPJ7GL

Registration Deadline: June 6, 2026 (One week before the event)

8] Contact Information

📧 Email: contact@wingsofaero.in
🌐 Website: www.wingsofaero.in/events