International Hackathon on Deep Space Network & Interplanetary Communication Systems

International Hackathon on Deep Space Network & Interplanetary Communication Systems

Dates: July 4–6, 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 Deep Space Network (DSN) & Interplanetary Communication Systems brings together innovators, engineers, researchers, and students to solve real-world challenges in deep-space connectivity. As humanity ventures farther into the Solar System—toward the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and outer planets—the demand for highly reliable, low-latency, high-bandwidth communication systems is rapidly increasing.

This hackathon provides a global platform for participants to ideate, design, and develop next-generation communication architectures, protocols, antennas, and mission-critical tools that can support future interplanetary missions. Participants will work on cutting-edge challenges inspired by ISRO, NASA, ESA, JAXA, and other space agencies.

2] Problem Statements / Tracks (10 Total)

Track 1: Delay-Tolerant Networking (DTN) Optimization for Deep Space Missions

Problem: Deep space communication faces extremely high latency and intermittent connectivity.
Expected Solution: Design algorithms or protocols that enhance DTN reliability, improve message delivery rates, or reduce data loss across planetary distances.

Track 2: Next-Generation High-Gain Antenna Designs for Interplanetary Links

Problem: Current antenna systems struggle with alignment accuracy and signal degradation over millions of kilometers.
Expected Solution: Create innovative antenna concepts (deployable, phased array, smart antenna) optimized for deep-space communication efficiency.

Track 3: AI-Based Autonomous Routing Systems for Deep-Space Networks

Problem: Spacecraft require autonomous routing decisions due to long communication delays.
Expected Solution: Develop AI/ML models that enable spacecraft to self-manage communication paths and allocate bandwidth dynamically.

Track 4: Precision Time Synchronization for Planetary Networks

Problem: Interplanetary networks need precise timekeeping for navigation, data fusion, and communication.
Expected Solution: Propose technologies or algorithms enabling highly accurate time synchronization across vast distances.

Track 5: Solar Interference & Space Weather Mitigation Techniques

Problem: Solar flares and radiation disrupt communication between Earth and spacecraft.
Expected Solution: Provide prediction models, adaptive communication protocols, or shielding strategies to reduce signal disturbances.

Track 6: Mars–Earth High-Data-Rate Communication Architecture

Problem: Future Mars missions require high-bandwidth data transmission for science, video feeds, and remote operations.
Expected Solution: Design a scalable architecture involving orbiters, relays, and ground stations for sustained Mars–Earth communication.

Track 7: Inter-Satellite Laser Communication Systems

Problem: Long-distance RF systems face bandwidth limitations.
Expected Solution: Propose hybrid optical/RF systems or laser communication terminals designed for deep-space relay networks.

Track 8: Planetary Surface Relay Network for Lunar & Mars Exploration

Problem: Rovers, habitats, and landers need robust surface communication.
Expected Solution: Create layouts, mesh networks, or relay satellites enabling uninterrupted coverage on Moon or Mars.

Track 9: Secure Communication Protocols for Interplanetary Missions

Problem: Spacecraft communication is vulnerable to interference, cyberattacks, and unauthorized access.
Expected Solution: Design secure encryption, authentication, and fail-safe frameworks for mission-critical communication.

Track 10: Open Innovation Track – Student Concept Challenge

Participants can submit any innovative idea related to deep-space or interplanetary communication systems.
Expected Solution: A unique, practical, and futuristic concept with a clear technical approach.

3] Event Schedule (Three-Day Hackathon)

📅 Day 1 – July 4, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Inauguration & Welcome Address

• 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Expert Talk on Interplanetary Communication

• 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Problem Statement Briefing

• 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Team Formation & Initial Idea Submission

📅 Day 2 – July 5, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Prototype Development / Simulation

• 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Mentor Review & Feedback

• 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Refinement & Final Design Submission

📅 Day 3 – July 6, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Final Presentation Preparation

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

• 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Valedictory & Announcement of Winners

4] Eligibility & Participation Rules

Eligibility

• Open to students, researchers, innovators, and professionals worldwide.

• Team Size: 2–4 Members.

Participation Rules & Code of Conduct

• All submissions must be original.

• Plagiarism or inappropriate content will lead to disqualification.

• Maintain professional and respectful communication.

• Decisions of the jury are final.

• Teams must submit all required documents before deadlines.

5] Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation & Creativity – Originality of the idea.

2. Practical Application / Social Impact – Relevance to future space missions.

3. Technical Implementation – Engineering depth and feasibility.

4. Scalability & Feasibility – Long-term application and viability.

5. Presentation Quality – Clarity, structure, and demonstration.

6] Prizes & Recognition

🎉 Awards & Opportunities

• Top 10 Winners:
  Receive USD 1000 Worth Voucher – “Idea to Startup Scheme” by SUKISH GROUP.

• Top 3 Ideas:
  Shared with major organizations for potential seed funding, including:

  1. NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)

  2. ISRO Deep Space Network (IDSN)

  3. European Space Agency (ESA) – ESTRACK

  4. JAXA Space Communications Laboratory

  5. SpaceX Starlink/Deep-Space R&D

Additional Recognition

• Certificates of Participation for all teams.

• 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

Indian Team (4 Members):

💰 Fee: Rs. 499
🔗 Registration Link: https://rzp.io/rzp/OIdx3sUB

International Team (4 Members):

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

Deadline for Registration:
📌 June 27, 2026 (One week before the Hackathon)

8] Contact Information

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