Got a space innovation idea? This competition offers Rs 5 lakh to winners

Viasat has announced the launch of the 2026 Space for Good India Challenge, opening applications for university students across India who want to use space technology to solve real-world challenges.

The initiative is part of the company's global STEM programme and aims to encourage students to develop innovative solutions that improve life on Earth through advances in satellite communications and space technologies.

The challenge returns after a successful debut in India in 2025. According to Viasat, the previous edition delivered encouraging results, with 93 per cent of participants reporting greater awareness of careers in space and telecommunications. Interest in space-related careers increased by 53.45 per cent, while confidence about future employment opportunities rose by 32.2 per cent.

A PLATFORM FOR BIG IDEAS

As India's space sector continues to grow rapidly, Viasat says the challenge is designed to connect students with emerging opportunities in the industry.

Speaking at the launch, Gautam Sharma, Managing Director, India at Viasat, said, "The response to last year’s programme in India exceeded our expectations, showcasing the incredible ingenuity and ambition of students across the country."

He added, "With the return of Viasat: Space for Good in 2026, we are building on that strong foundation—expanding opportunities for students to explore bold ideas that can transform space technologies while addressing real-world challenges."

WHAT STUDENTS WILL WORK ON

Participants will be encouraged to explore how space-based technologies can address challenges on Earth. Key focus areas include:

• Equitable and sustainable access to space

• Direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity

• Internet of Things (IoT)

• Multi-orbit satellite constellations

• Disaster response and humanitarian support

The competition is open to individual university students from across India.

ELIGIBILITY

The challenge is open to all students enroled in Indian universities, including graduate and PhD candidates from any academic discipline. Applicants must be 18 years or older and accept the programme's terms and conditions before applying.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

The challenge will take place in three stages:

• Phase 1 (Written Submission): June 8 – July 19, 2026

• Phase 2 (3-Minute Digital Submission): August 3 – August 23, 2026

• Phase 3 Preparation Opens: September 7, 2026

• Finals Week: October 24 – October 27, 2026

• Final Presentations and Awards: October 27, 2026

From all entries received, 30 students will move to the second round. Six finalists will then be selected to present their ideas before a panel of industry experts.

Each finalist will also be paired with a Viasat mentor to refine their proposal before the final round.

CASH PRIZES UP FOR GRABS

The competition offers attractive rewards for top performers:

• First Prize: Rs 5,00,000

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  Second Prize: Rs 3,75,000

• 3rd Prize: Rs 2,75,000

Applications and programme details are available through the official challenge platform.

Direct link to read more on this and to apply for the competition

For students interested in space technology, innovation and problem-solving, the challenge offers a chance to gain industry exposure, expert guidance and national recognition while competing for substantial prize money.