International Hackathon on Space-Based Manufacturing & Orbital Industrialization

International Hackathon on Space-Based Manufacturing & Orbital Industrialization

September 12–14, 2026 | Online Mode

Organized by: Wings of Aero
Convenor: Ms. Suguna B – Co-Founder & CBO, Wings of Aero

1] About the Hackathon

The International Hackathon on Space-Based Manufacturing & Orbital Industrialization is a global innovation challenge focused on the future of space factories, in-orbit production lines, automated assembly systems, and next-generation industrial ecosystems beyond Earth. As humanity moves toward large-scale space exploration, establishing autonomous and efficient off-Earth manufacturing capabilities becomes essential for building habitats, spacecraft, materials, pharmaceuticals, and energy systems.

This hackathon brings researchers, students, engineers, entrepreneurs, and space-tech innovators together to prototype bold solutions that redefine how manufacturing will operate in microgravity and deep-space environments. Participants will address real-world challenges in material science, advanced robotics, orbital infrastructure, in-situ fabrication, and closed-loop industrial systems.

2] Problem Statements / Tracks

1. Microgravity-Optimized Manufacturing Processes

Problem: Traditional manufacturing methods do not function effectively in microgravity.
Expected Solution: Develop process concepts or system designs enabling precision manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing, metal sintering, crystal growth) optimized for microgravity.

2. Automated In-Orbit Assembly Systems

Problem: Building large structures in orbit requires autonomous or semi-autonomous assembly robotics.
Expected Solution: Propose robotic systems, control architecture, or AI-driven assembly frameworks for constructing satellites, trusses, or space habitats in orbit.

3. Orbital Polymer & Composite Manufacturing

Problem: Producing polymers and composites in space requires new thermal management and curing strategies.
Expected Solution: Design microgravity-compatible composite manufacturing processes or automated curing systems.

4. Industrial-Scale Space 3D Printing Facilities

Problem: Current space printers are limited to small-scale experiments.
Expected Solution: Create scalable factory model concepts for multi-material 3D printing in orbit (metals, ceramics, organics).

5. Material Recycling & Reprocessing in Orbital Facilities

Problem: Waste materials from missions need to be reused to reduce launch cost.
Expected Solution: Develop recycling technologies or closed-loop material reprocessing lines for orbital industrial units.

6. Power Infrastructure for Space Manufacturing Plants

Problem: Continuous, reliable power is critical for factory operations in orbit.
Expected Solution: Propose solar array systems, microwave power transfer, or hybrid power solutions optimized for orbital factories.

7. Thermal Regulation Techniques for Orbital Factories

Problem: Space factories face extreme temperature cycles impacting process stability.
Expected Solution: Design thermal shielding, radiative cooling systems, or active heat management for industrial-grade operations.

8. Deployment & Stabilization of Large Orbital Industrial Platforms

Problem: Large factories must remain stable, rotationally controlled, and impact-resistant in orbit.
Expected Solution: Suggest attitude control, vibration damping, or stabilizing architectures for large-scale orbital stations.

9. Workforce Automation: AI-Driven Factory Control Systems

Problem: Human presence in orbital factories is limited; automation is essential.
Expected Solution: Develop digital twin models, remote operations systems, or AI-based factory control strategies.

10. Individual Innovation Track – Open Concept

Participants may propose any novel idea related to space-based manufacturing, orbital industrial systems, or futuristic in-space fabrication technologies. Solutions may range from material innovations to factory architecture concepts.

3] Event Schedule (Three-Day)

Day 1 – September 12, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Inaugural Ceremony & Theme Briefing

• 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Problem Statement Deep-Dive Sessions

• 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Team Formation + Work Kickoff + Mentoring Round 1

Day 2 – September 13, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Technical Mentorship + Mid-Review

• 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Prototype/Model Development + Mentor Feedback

Day 3 – September 14, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Final Submission & Pitch Preparation

• 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Final Presentations & Jury Evaluation

• 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Awards & Closing Ceremony

4] Eligibility & Participation Rules

Eligibility

• Open to students, researchers, innovators, startup teams, and professionals globally.

• Team Size: 2–4 members.

Participation Rules

• All work must be original, created during the hackathon.

• Maintain professional, inclusive, and respectful conduct.

• Plagiarism or copying existing projects will result in disqualification.

• Teams must adhere to submission deadlines and presentation guidelines.

Code of Conduct

• Zero tolerance for harassment or discrimination.

• Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are encouraged.

• Respect intellectual property and team boundaries.

5] Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation & Creativity (20%)
   Novelty, originality, and boldness of the idea.

2. Practical Application / Social Impact (20%)
   Relevance to real-world space challenges and future applications.

3. Technical Implementation (20%)
   Engineering depth, accuracy, and feasibility.

4. Scalability & Feasibility (20%)
   Potential for real deployment within future space missions.

5. Presentation Quality (20%)
   Clarity, structure, visuals, and ability to communicate the concept.

6] Prizes & Recognition

🏆 Top 10 Winners

• USD 1000 Worth Voucher – Idea to Startup Scheme by SUKISH GROUP

🏆 Top 3 Ideas

Shared with top organizations for potential Seed Funding Support:

• NASA Marshall Space Flight Center

• ESA Advanced Manufacturing Office

• Made In Space (Redwire Space)

• Axiom Space – Orbital Station Development Team

• Blue Origin – Orbital Reef Industrial Program

Additional Benefits

• Certificates of Participation to all teams

• Special category: Innovation Awards at WOA International Awards 2026 Series

• Opportunity to showcase at WOA International Conference

• Selected ideas to be abstracted in WOA International Journal

7] Registration Section

Indian Team (4 Members): Rs. 499

Registration Link: https://rzp.io/rzp/OIdx3sUB

International Team (4 Members): USD 50

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

Registration Deadline: September 5, 2026

(One week before the hackathon)

8] Contact Information

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