Viasat has announced the expansion of its flagship STEM initiative, the Space for Good Challenge, with the India edition set to return in 2026. The competition aims to inspire university students to develop innovative, sustainable space-based solutions that address real-world challenges on Earth.
Following the success of the 2025 program, the upcoming edition will span multiple regions, including India and Australia in 2026, with further expansion planned for the United States and the United Kingdom & Ireland in 2027.
India to Host 2026 Grand Finale
India will once again play a central role in the global competition, highlighting its reputation as a leading technology and engineering hub.
- Applications open: June 8, 2026
- Grand finale: October 27, 2026
- Location: New Delhi
Viasat emphasized that the return to India reflects its commitment to nurturing local talent and supporting innovation in digital inclusion and space sustainability.
The Space for Good Challenge encourages participants to tackle pressing issues in the space sector, including:
- Orbital debris management
- Satellite-enabled connectivity for underserved communities
- Environmental and social impact through space technologies
Students will progress through a three-stage competition process: concept development, digital refinement, and a final pitch to a panel of industry experts.
Australia Joins for the First Time
In a major expansion, Viasat is launching the challenge in Australia for the first time in 2026.
- Applications open: July 13, 2026
- Grand finale: December 8, 2026
- Location: Sydney
The move reflects Australia’s growing space industry and the increasing importance of satellite technology in areas such as remote connectivity, disaster resilience, and national infrastructure.
While India and Australia will host events in 2026, Viasat plans to extend the competition to additional regions in 2027, including North America and Europe. The initiative is designed to build a global pipeline of talent focused on advancing space-based solutions.
Participants in the Space for Good Challenge will gain:
- Cash prizes
- Mentorship from global experts
- Exposure to real-world space industry challenges
The program aims to equip the next generation of innovators with the skills and experience needed to contribute to the rapidly evolving space technology sector.
Viasat’s expanded Space for Good Challenge underscores the growing role of space technology in everyday life—from communication and transportation to safety and environmental monitoring. By engaging students worldwide, the initiative seeks to foster innovative ideas that can create meaningful impact across industries and communities.
