The CASSINI Hackathon is back in the Netherlands

08-10-2024
The CASSINI Hackathon is back in the Netherlands for its 8th edition from 22-24 November 2024 at the Dutch Innovation Factory. An exciting event focused on leveraging EU space technology for defence and security. Collaborate, innovate, and network in Zoetermeer to develop cutting-edge solutions.
join usjoin us
earth and satellites
Whether you're a participant ready to solve challenges, a mentor eager to share knowledge, or a partner seeking to support this innovation-driven event, there's a place for everyone in this exciting space journey. Registration is free, and anyone can join – no experience necessary. Come along (in person or virtually) to hear from national experts in business and space technology. Watch our online training sessions and delve into the vault of EU space data from Copernicus, EGNOS and Galileo. 

CASSINI Hackathon

The CASSINI Hackathons & Mentoring programme, organised by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) and the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS), is a Europe-wide initiative designed to foster innovation by leveraging space data. It invites students, graduates, researchers, and early-stage teams/startups to work on digital applications using satellite images, positioning services, and space technologies.

Held simultaneously in 10 European cities, including Zoetermeer, Netherlands, the hackathon provides teams with access to space data, tools, and expert mentorship to turn ideas into solutions. Each location will crown one winning team, which will then compete in the finals to win exciting prizes, including six months of mentoring from top space business coaches in Europe.

Defence & Security

Defence & Security in a World of Growing Cyber Threats. As the world faces increasing cyber threats and geopolitical tensions, EU space technology is pivotal in ensuring the security of critical infrastructure. This year’s CASSINI Hackathon will explore the future of defence and security, focusing on how space-based systems can enhance secure communications, disaster response, and navigation services.

Participants will tackle one of three exciting challenges: 

  1. Enhancing Defence & Security with Geospatial Intelligence
  2. Unmanned Drone Applications for Defence & Security Operations
  3. Orbital Security: Navigating the Collision Frontier

Join us from 22-24 November 2024, and collaborate on solutions to secure the future!

Hackathon prizes

Rewarding innovation and excellence. At the conclusion of the hackathon, teams will present their solutions to an expert judging panel. The top three teams will receive fantastic prizes:

  • First Prize: €1,000
  • Second Prize: €500
  • Special Opportunity: An interview on Groundstation.space and a pitch slot at the NL Space Campus Network & Drinks event

Keep an eye out for additional prizes from sponsors as they are announced!

How to join the Hackathon?

The CASSINI Hackathon is open to students, entrepreneurs, engineers, designers, and researchers. Eligible participants must be 18 or older and reside in the EU or a country associated with Horizon Europe. Teams should consist of 3 to 8 members. To register, visit the dedicated platform and secure your spot by 15 November. Whether you’re bringing a team or joining one, this is your opportunity to make an impact with space data.

Join our networking event

On Friday, 22 November, the Province of South Holland and MKB Digiwerkplaats Haaglanden will host an exclusive networking event in Zoetermeer. This session will provide entrepreneurs and tech professionals a chance to explore the business potential of space technologies. Learn how space data can benefit small businesses and meet others ready to take their innovation to the next level. The networking event will take place at the Dutch Innovation Factory, followed by the official launch of the CASSINI Hackathon.


Join us as a partner

Collaborate and Support Innovation.
Current partners include:

  • The Hague University of Applied Sciences
  • Dutch Innovation Factory
  • NL Space Campus
  • Security Delta (HSD)
  • Unmanned Valley Valkenburg
  • Netherlands Space Office
  • Hogeschool Utrecht

Are you interested in partnering with us? We welcome new collaborators and sponsors. Contact Martijn Seijger at [email protected] to explore how your organization can get involved.

Meet the mentors

Our hackathon experts are seasoned professionals in space technology and innovation, ready to provide insights and guidance throughout the event. Current experts include:
  • Fabio Hoeben (Royal HaskoningDHV)
  • Sebastiaan Rieter (THUAS)
  • Annemiek Haneveld (MKB Digiwerkplaats Haaglanden)
  • Vikram Radhakrishnan (THUAS)
  • Hanno Hildmann, PhD (Smart Sensor Systems)
  • Martijn Seijger (dotSPACE)

Would you like to join as an expert or mentor? We are always looking for professionals eager to help shape the future of space technology. Contact Martijn Seijger at [email protected] to learn more.

About the organisers

DotSPACE and Royal HaskoningDHV are leading the organisation of the CASSINI Hackathon in the Netherlands in collaboration with partners from academia, government, and the commercial sector. Together, we aim to raise awareness about the incredible potential of space technologies for security, business, and societal growth.The CASSINI Hackathon is organized by EUSPA and DG DEFIS. Join us at the Dutch Innovation Factory or participate online and take part in shaping the future of space technology!

Sponsors/ partners

  • The Hague University of Applied Science
  • Dutch Innovation Factory
  • Stichting NL Space Campus
  • Security Delta
  • Unmanned Vally Valkenburg
  • Netherlands Space Office
  • Hogeschool of Utrecht 

The countdown to innovation has begun

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. Register now at the dedicated platform and bring your ideas to life with the support of Europe’s top space experts.

 

Join our upcoming Webinar

We are excited to invite you to our webinar on 'Enhancing Defence & Security with Geospatial Intelligence' on 29 October 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and engage with fellow professionals.

Webinar 

Frans van den Akker - Business Developer Industry 4.0 at Royal Haskoning DHV

Fransvan den Akker

Business Developer Industry 4.0 at Royal Haskoning DHV