Space for Planet Earth – Opening Event

Come and join SpaceBase as we launch and celebrate the opening of the “Space for Planet Earth Challenge” at the Turanga Christchurch Library. Live-streaming TBC.

The event includes keynote addresses from:

• Honorable Lianne Dalziel, Mayor of Christchurch
• Mike Safyan, Vice President of Launch and Regulatory Affairs, Planet
• Leslie Goodman, Public Affairs, U.S. Embassy in New Zealand
• Anthony Burn, Policy and Research, Center for Climate and Security
• Duncan Steel, Author, Broadcaster, Principle Research Scientist, Xerra Earth Observation Institute
• Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom, CEO and Co-Founder, SpaceBase

Learn about leveraging satellite technologies to address climate change challenges. Understand the current state of environmental issues in the region – from quantifying carbon sequestration to monitoring coral health from experts and stakeholders. Learn about how to apply for the challenge or get involved as mentors, collaborators and supporters.

The competition is open to two categories: high school and university/start-up levels. Qualified teams will be invited to participate in a 2.5 month incubator program that will include learning about remote sensing and data analysis, as well as design thinking and prototyping. Planet will provide specific training datasets and a session on the Planet Platform including technical support as part of the incubator programme. The teams will leverage other sources and take advantage of platforms like the Allen Coral Atlas to work on their projects. Shortlisted teams will be invited to pitch their ideas during the closing event hosted in Christchurch in February 2022.

The two grand prize winners will win up to $30,000 NZD, plus Planet data vouchers (valued at $15,000 NZD each) to help further their research, mentorship, and more. The competition is open to all New Zealand, Australia, and Pacific Island residents. Proposals to participate in the incubator programme can be submitted online between 2 August and 31 October. Full Challenge applications are due 31 January 2022.

The Challenge is brought to you by our partners and sponsors including Planet, the US. Embassy in New Zealand, ChristchurchNZ, Namaste Foundation, Greenlight Ventures, and MMAARS Limited. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at info@spaceforearth.org.

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