MUSCAT : The event gathered 645 participants across 85 teams under the banner “Learn, Launch, and Lead.” The two-day global innovation event, hosted in partnership with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, is part of a worldwide initiative spanning 180 cities and engaging more than 14 space agencies.

The event was inaugurated under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Khalifa bin Al Julanda Al Said, with the presence of His Excellency Dr. Said bin Hamad Al Rubaie, President of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, alongside dignitaries, experts, and space enthusiasts.

In his keynote address, Dr. Al Rubaie emphasized the importance of the hackathon in fostering innovation and encouraging students, programmers, and developers to tackle real-world challenges using open data and advanced software. He noted the event’s simultaneous organization across continents, highlighting Oman’s role as a hub for space research and youth innovation.

Notably, this year’s hackathon features the participation of the Zanzibar Space Team from the People’s Republic of Zanzibar, underscoring the event’s growing international dimension. Participants will compete to solve 18 global challenges and a special local challenge curated in collaboration with the Oman Astronomical Society and Etlaq Company.

Engineer Sarah Knutson, spokesperson for the NASA Space Apps Challenge, announced that a featured challenge this year focuses on “Understanding the Sun – From Solar Flares to Space Weather.” Developed with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences and the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space, the task invites participants to create models and awareness tools that enhance understanding of solar activity and its impact on Earth.

Day one of the program included a global showcase on youth engagement with NASA’s hackathon, followed by a high-profile panel discussion. Speakers included Dr. Ishaq bin Yahya Al-Shuaili, Chairman of the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space; Eng. Haitham bin Ahmed Al-Mahrazi, COO of the Space Launch Company; Ghaida bint Khalid Al-Jabri, Space Executive at Al-Anqa Space and Technology; and Eng. Adel bin Abdullah Al-Saadi, Head of Strategic Relations at the National Space Program.

The panel explored key applications of astronomy, engineering, and space technologies, while spotlighting Oman’s National Space Program and its contributions to scientific advancement.

The opening concluded with His Highness Sayyid Khalifa bin Al Julanda Al Said honoring contributors and inaugurating an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies in space and astronomy.

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