The Space Tech Mission Idea Contest (ST-MIC) and Bootcamp Training is an initiative designed to nurture the next generation of space science and technology professionals in Kenyan university ecosystem. This program is conceived to offer university students a unique opportunity to engage directly with the complexities of space exploration by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the space industry. In an era where space technology is rapidly advancing, hands-on experience is crucial for students to develop the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to this field. This program therefore ensures that participants not only learn about the latest developments in space science and technology but also understand via hands-on experience on how to apply this knowledge in real-world cases.

The ST-MIC program was officially launched on 18 June 2024 at the Kenya Space Expo and Conference 2024, held at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi. The announcement invited university students to form teams of up to four members and submit an abstract outlining their Mission Idea Concept. The response was incredible, with the Agency receiving over 40 mission ideas from teams representing various universities by the submission deadline of 12 July 2024.

Following the evaluation process, 25 best mission ideas proceeded to the Phase 1 of the training which was an online “Understanding Space Course” program conducted in collaboration with Teaching Science and Technology Inc (TSTI) from 22 July - 16 August 2024. This process equipped the teams with a strong theoretical foundation in space science and technology, while also offering them the opportunity to refine and enhance their initial mission ideas for their final submissions.

Following closing of submission of the final mission ideas, the Agency received 20 mission ideas from the participants and conducted a thorough evaluation process in collaboration with TSTI where the best five (5) mission ideas were identified to proceed to the advance hands-on Phase two (2) training to be conducted in collaboration with Italian Space Agency in Malindi.

Important Dates

Abstract Submission: 4:00pm EAT on Friday 12 July, 2024

Announcement of 25 selected teams: Wednesday, 17 July, 2024

Kick Off Meeting (online): Friday, 19 July, 2024

Understanding Space (Online): 22 July- 16 August, 2024

ST-MIC Concept Note Submission: 4:00pm EAT on 16 August, 2024

Evaluation of ST-MIC Concept: 19 - 22 August, 2024

Announcement of the top FIVE teams: Friday, 23 August, 2024

Nanosat Training Boot Camp: 28 October- 8 November, 2024 

         

How Do I Participate?

The current ST-MIC is closed for participations. However, we urge you to follow KSA social media for future  editions of the ST-MIC and similar programmes.