Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC)
by Atlantis Erudition & Travel Services Pvt. Ltd.
Pathway to NASA International Finals
Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC) is a competition by Atlantis Erudition & Travel Services Pvt. Ltd. for students in Class 8–12, open to students across India. Registration closes 15 Aug 2026.
Mode
Hybrid
Eligibility
Class 8–12
Fee
₹18,000
Duration
Several months for qualifying round, weekend event for live competition
Format
Team · Teams of 12
Time needed
Significant time for proposal preparation and live competition participation, including research and team meetings.
Key Dates
- Registration opens
- 5 Mar 2026
- Registration closes
- 15 Aug 2026
- Competition
- 26 Sept 2026 – 28 Sept 2026
To Be Announced, To Be Announced, To Be Announced
About This Opportunity
The Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC) is a prestigious national contest for high school students across India. It challenges participants to step into the role of aerospace engineers, tasked with designing a viable space settlement based on a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP). This competition serves as a crucial quarter-final stage for the International Space Settlement Design Competition (ISSDC), providing a unique opportunity for global recognition and advancement in the field of space exploration.
Eligibility extends to high school students from grades 9 to 12, typically aged between 15 and 18 years. Participants must not be enrolled in a full-time college or university curriculum as of April 15th. While a team size of 12 members is recommended for optimal collaboration, smaller teams have also successfully participated. An adult advisor, such as a teacher or parent, is required to register the team and provide guidance throughout the competition.
This competition offers significant benefits, including the development of advanced skills in space science, physics, mathematics, chemistry, environmental science, biology, and computer science. Participants also enhance their technical writing, public speaking, and artistic presentation abilities. The program fosters critical technical competence, effective management skills, and strong teamwork, culminating in the preparation of professional-grade documentation. Winners gain the opportunity to advance to the Asian Regional Space Settlement Design Competition (ARSSDC) and potentially the International Finals held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 8–12
- Age Range
- 14 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
High school student, not studying in a full-time college or university curriculum as of April 15.
Prerequisites
- Strong interest in space, science, and engineering
- Ability to work effectively in a team
Open to Indian high school students in grades 8-12, typically aged 14-18 years. Participants must not be enrolled in a full-time college or university curriculum as of April 15. This is a nationwide competition for students across India.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The competition involves designing a comprehensive space settlement based on a Request for Proposal (RFP). This covers various aspects including structural engineering, operational logistics, infrastructure development, human factors, automation, business development strategies, project scheduling, and detailed cost analysis. The design concept is updated annually, requiring participants to develop innovative solutions for future space habitats.
Rewards & Recognition
Certificate
Participation & Achievement Certificates
Certificates of participation are awarded to all participants, and certificates of achievement are provided to winning teams, recognized by the organizing bodies and the International Space Settlement Design Competition.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation and success in INSSDC significantly enhance college applications, particularly for STEM programs, demonstrating initiative, advanced technical skills, and a commitment to challenging academic pursuits.
Career pathways
Directly prepares students for careers in aerospace engineering, space science, research, and related STEM fields. Networking opportunities with industry professionals can lead to mentorship and future career pathways.
Recognition
National & International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Rounds & format
Qualifying Round: Teams register, receive an RFP, and submit a 40-page proposal. Live Competition (Indian Nationals): 20 selected teams participate in a live event. Winners advance to the Asian Regional Space Settlement Design Competition (ARSSDC) and then potentially to the International Finals at NASA.
How entries are judged
Thoroughness, imagination, and creativity in responding to the RFP requirements. Evaluation covers structural design, operations, infrastructure, human factors, automation, business development, schedule, and costs. Presentations are also judged.
Selection process
Teams are selected based on the quality and comprehensiveness of their 40-page proposal submitted in the qualifying round. The top 20 teams advance to the Indian Nationals Live competition.
How to apply
- 1Register online as a team with an adult advisor.
- 2Receive the Request for Proposal (RFP) and other important documents.
- 3Prepare and submit a 40-page proposal in PDF format by the specified deadline.
- 4Selected teams will be invited to participate in the live competition round.
How to prepare
- Review past RFPs and winning proposals from previous competitions.
- Study concepts related to space science, engineering, and habitat design.
- Form a diverse team with members having varied skills in science, writing, and art.
- Utilize resources provided on the official ARSSDC website, including competition format and FAQs.
- Seek mentorship from teachers or professionals in relevant fields.
Fees & financial support
Fee details
The registration fee for an Indian team is ₹18,000. Payment can be made via RTGS/NEFT/IMPS to the provided HDFC Bank account details.
Refund policy
Details regarding the refund policy are not explicitly provided and may be available upon registration or inquiry with the organizers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to register for Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC)?
The registration deadline is 15 Aug 2026.
Is Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC) free?
₹18,000 registration
Who can participate in Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC)?
Students in Class 8–12. children aged 14-18.
What will my child gain from Indian Nationals Space Settlement Design Competition (INSSDC)?
Opportunity to advance to the International Space Settlement Design Competition (ISSDC) finals at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.. Develop critical skills in space science, engineering, technical writing, and public speaking.. Gain hands-on experience in designing complex space settlements.. Receive certificates of participation and achievement.. Network with aerospace industry professionals and mentors.. Enhance teamwork and leadership abilities.. Strengthen academic profile for higher education admissions.. Gain hands-on experience in designing complex, multi-faceted space settlements..
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