With the theme “The Sun Touches Everything,” the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024 is coming to Mérida for the first time, joining various locations around the world to solve challenges related to space exploration using creativity and innovation.
Scheduled for October 4, 5, and 6, this global challenge invites participants of all ages and backgrounds. Additionally, some talented individuals from Yucatán will have the opportunity to visit NASA facilities through this program.
Alex Palomo, the local leader of NASA Space Apps Challenge in Mérida, explained that during this weekend, teams of one to six people will work on solving more than 20 challenges proposed by NASA and other space agencies, such as the Mexican Space Agency (AEM).
He detailed that the activities would combine group dynamics with a 72-hour marathon to be held at Universidad Latina, where these challenges will be discussed.
The challenges are aligned with the 2030 Agenda and seek solutions to problems such as climate change, gender equality, and the use of Earth observation data to solve agricultural issues.
The challenge consists of designing necessary tools, from youth or society in general, for current issues such as access to drinking water, with the support of data provided by NASA.
He also highlighted that participants are encouraged to develop audiovisual materials to explain phenomena such as solar storms and their implications.
This event is not limited to scientific profiles but promotes multidisciplinary participation to seek solutions to global problems.
The most exciting part, according to Palomo, is that it is a free and non-profit event, under the premise that local talent will develop their skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
He added that all projects developed at the various locations will be uploaded to a digital platform, where they will be evaluated by NASA experts. The top 10 proposals globally will be presented directly at the North American Space Agency.
It is a unique opportunity for someone from Yucatán to present their project at NASA, concluded Palomo.
What is the “The Sun Touches Everything” event about?
- Dates: October 4, 5, and 6
- Location: Universidad Latina, Mérida
- Participants: All ages and backgrounds, teams of 1 to 6 people
- Challenges: More than 20 challenges proposed by NASA and AEM
- Main Topics: Climate change, gender equality, Earth observation data for agricultural issues, access to drinking water
- Duration: 72 hours
- Prize: Opportunity to visit NASA for local talent
- Projects evaluated by: NASA experts
- Global Proposals: The top 10 will be presented at NASA
- Participation: Free and multidisciplinary
Source: 24 Horas Yucatan
