NASA space apps challenge to spark innovation

NASA and other space agencies are preparing for the fourth annual "International Space Apps Challenge" which will be held online at more than 135 locations worldwide April 10-12.

During the three-day event, participants are asked to develop mobile applications, software, hardware, data visualisation and platform solutions that could contribute to space exploration missions and help improve life on Earth, the US space agency said in a statement.

This year, 35 challenges represent NASA mission priorities in four areas: Earth studies, space exploration, human health research and robotics.

Many of the challenges are in the Earth theme, supporting NASA's missions to monitor Earth's vital signs from land, air and space.

"These challenges provide opportunities for US and global citizen scientists, engineers and students to interact and contribute to space exploration through code development, data analytics innovation, open source software and hardware," said Deborah Diaz, chief technology officer at NASA headquarters in Washington, DC.

This year's challenge will include the first ever Data Bootcamp, with a focus on Women in Data.

The bootcamp is open to the public and will give participants the opportunity to improve their skills with computer coding and data.

Astronaut Cady Coleman and NASA chief scientist Ellen Stofan will join the New York event.

More than 200 data sources, including data sets, services and tools will be available for this challenge.

This event brings together tech-savvy citizens, scientists, entrepreneurs, educators and students to help solve problems and questions relevant to space exploration and broader subjects that impact life on Earth.