The Astro Pi Challenge is an annual ESA science and programming competition that gives students the opportunity to run their code on the International Space Station (ISS). A Raspberry Pi minicomputer was specially expanded and transformed into an AstroPi.
Equipped with cameras and various environmental sensors, the AstroPi offers students the opportunity to send a visual message to the astronauts or to solve a scientific task on the ISS. The aim is to demonstrate the possibilities of computer programming and encourage students to improve their digital skills and promote their interest in STEM subjects.
An online information event was held on 15.10.2024. Here is the recording (in German).
There are two levels of difficulty:
For Beginners
Mission Zero till 19 Years (suitable from 8 Years)
- Submissions untill 24th March 2024
- For programming beginners: simple program to read out a color sensor and draw an image in the LED matrix (motto: flora and fauna)
- no Competition, all receive a certificate (June)
- Step-by-Step Guide
- up to 4 young people plus Mentor
- Guidelines
- Astro Pi Emulator
For advanced users
Mission Space Lab up to 19 Years
- Submission possible from November 6, 2024 to February 24, 2025
- Determining the speed of the ISS as accurately as possible with the various sensors
- Team of 2-6 students plus Mentor
- official guidelines
- all receive a certificate (June)
- Astro Pi Desktop simulator (in development)
- Astro Pi Online simulator (in development) New
Two new Astro Pis have been on board the ISS since December 2021. The new Astro Pis are presented here: