Space Settlement Design Competition 2026
International Space Settlement Design Competition
📌 About the Event
The Space Settlement Design Competition (SSDC) 2026 is a massive industry simulation challenge where students act as aerospace engineers working for a fictional company. It has a deadline of April 10, 2026. Teams must produce a comprehensive design proposal covering structure, life support, automation, and scheduling for a futuristic space base. It aims to teach students real-world engineering project management and space science.
ℹ Event Details
- Category: Technology and Engineering / Aerospace
- Organizer: ISSDC (International Space Settlement Design Competition)
- Eligibility: High School Students (Classes 9 to 12)
- Team Size: 12 members (as a Company)
- Effort Level: High
- Submission Type: Technical Design Proposal (PDF)
📅 Important Dates
- Registration Deadline: April 10, 2026 (Indian Regional Qualifiers)
- Event or Submission Date: April 2026
- Results Announcement: May 2026
- Mode: Online / Hybrid
- Venue: Finals often at NASA Kennedy Space Center (for winners)
🏆 Prize Details and Value
- Prize Type: Trophy and Global Showcase
- Prize Amount or Value: Fully sponsored trip for winning teams to the International Finals
- Certificates: Merit certificates recognized by aerospace organizations worldwide
- Visibility and Showcase: Finalists present at a global summit attended by NASA experts
- Additional Perks: Networking with aerospace professionals and ISRO scientists
🎯 What You Will Do
- Form a “company” of 12 students and assign roles like CEO or Head of Engineering.
- Analyze the Request for Proposal (RFP) detailing the colony’s specific requirements.
- Design the physical structure, environmental systems, and internal economy of the base.
- Compile a professional 40-page technical document with detailed CAD drawings.
- Present your proposal to a board of “customer” judges in an intensive 24-hour cycle.
📦 Resources and Support Available
- Design manuals and past winning proposals available on the SSDC website.
- Mentorship from previous Indian regional winners.