MassBay Students Nominated for NASA Space Apps Challenge

Computer science team recognized for innovative space technology project.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:36am

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A highly textured, abstract painting in soft shades of blue, green, and purple, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the search for exoplanets through advanced technology.MassBay students' innovative AI-powered project aims to aid the search for habitable worlds beyond our solar system.Framingham Today

A team of computer science students from MassBay Community College, including one from Framingham and another from Bellingham, has been named a global nominee for the prestigious NASA Space Apps Challenge, an international hackathon that tasks participants with developing innovative solutions to space-related problems.

Why it matters

The NASA Space Apps Challenge is a highly competitive global event that attracts top talent from around the world to collaborate on cutting-edge space technology projects. Being selected as a nominee is a significant achievement that showcases the skills and creativity of the MassBay students, and highlights the college's strong computer science program.

The details

The MassBay team developed a project titled "A World Away: Hunting for Exoplanets with AI" that leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to assist in the search for habitable exoplanets beyond our solar system. Their innovative approach impressed the NASA judges and earned them a spot as one of the global nominees for the challenge.

  • The NASA Space Apps Challenge took place in April 2026.

The players

MassBay Community College

A public community college located in Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts, offering associate degree programs in various fields including computer science.

NASA Space Apps Challenge

An annual international hackathon organized by NASA that challenges participants to develop innovative solutions to space-related problems.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled that our students have been recognized for their hard work and creativity on this project. It's a testament to the quality of our computer science program and the talent of our students.”

— Dr. Jill Lohmeier, President, MassBay Community College

What’s next

The MassBay team will present their project at the global NASA Space Apps Challenge event, where they will compete against other nominees from around the world for the top prizes.

The takeaway

The nomination of MassBay students to the prestigious NASA Space Apps Challenge highlights the college's commitment to providing high-quality STEM education and preparing its students for success in the rapidly evolving field of space technology.