The S.R.N. Mehta CBSE School in Kalaburagi, India, secured the first prize in the NASA-NSS Space Settlement Design Contest 2025 for the 8th grade category. Their winning project, IRA, highlighted innovative ideas for a sustainable space colony, showcasing creativity and futuristic thinking.
A Big Win for India at a Global Contest
- The NASA-NSS Space Settlement Design Contest is a prestigious global competition that challenges students to envision living in space.
- In 2025, over 4,900 students from 25 countries participated in the competition.
- The S.R.N. Mehta School team’s project, IRA, excelled in the 8th-grade category by emphasizing safety, sustainability, and future-readiness.
Presentation at International Conference
- The winning team had the honor of presenting their project at the International Space Development Conference (ISDC-2025) in Orlando, Florida.
- During the conference, they showcased their project through a poster and oral presentation to a distinguished audience of over 250 experts, including space scientists and astronauts.
- The team received accolades for their confidence and in-depth knowledge demonstrated during the presentation.
NASA Visit and Future Dreams
- As part of their trip, the students visited the renowned NASA Kennedy Space Center, gaining insights into real space research, witnessing rocket launch pads, and interacting with astronauts.
- The visit inspired many students to pursue careers in STEM fields, fostering their aspirations in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
- Upon returning to India, the students were filled with enthusiasm and a commitment to further excel in the field of science, supported by their school’s management, teachers, and parents.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- S.R.N. Mehta CBSE School in Kalaburagi, India, clinched the top spot in the NASA-NSS Space Settlement Design Contest 2025, showcasing innovative ideas for sustainable space living.
- The winning project, IRA, stood out for its focus on safety, green initiatives, and future readiness.
- The students’ presentation at the International Space Development Conference in Orlando received praise for their confidence and knowledge.
- The visit to NASA Kennedy Space Center inspired students to pursue careers in STEM fields, highlighting the importance of practical exposure in shaping aspirations.