Netherlands Wins at 6th CASSINI Hackathon

The 6th CASSINI Hackathon, an initiative of the European Union’s space programme, recently concluded with a remarkable win for the Netherlands. This event, a convergence of technology and creativity, was an opportunity to explore the potential of European space data in addressing global challenges.

Space for International Development and Humanitarian Aid

The CASSINI Hackathons are a series of events focusing on utilising European space technologies to tackle pressing global issues. In its sixth edition, the hackathon engaged participants across Europe, offering access to Copernicus, Galileo, and EGNOS data. The challenges centred on sustainable infrastructure, food security, and migration forecasting.

6th CASSINI Hackathon: Lending a hand to global development & humanitarian aid

The Dutch Stage: The Local Hackathon Experience in Amersfoort

In Amersfoort, the Netherlands, the hackathon was co-organised by dotSPACE foundation and Royal Haskoning DHV. The local hackathon in Amersfoort was a unique experience, held at the headquarters of Royal Haskoning DHV. Participants had ample space to work, brainstorm, and rest, creating an ideal environment for innovation and collaboration. On-site participants were also accommodated, ensuring they had everything needed for a productive and comfortable weekend. This setting fostered creativity and allowed for meaningful interactions among participants.

Highlights from the 6th CASSINI Hackathon in Amersfoort / Photo by Dave Chapman

Hosted in Amersfoort, local hackathon showcased diverse projects:

• 1st Place – Upstream: Tackling aquaculture parasites with Copernicus satellite data, this team’s solution is aimed at sustainable aquaculture and food security.
• 2nd Place – oDam: Focused on water resource management, oDam developed a platform for managing upstream water supplies using satellite data.

Other notable projects included:

• Inframent OtterGrid: This initiative aimed to improve energy infrastructure development efficiency through advanced GNSS techniques and real-time satellite data analysis.
• SeedIt: Collaborating with the Justdiggit app, SeedIt proposed a system to advise farmers on optimal seed planting, integrating satellite and meteorological data.
• FloodWatch: Aimed at predicting and preparing for flood-prone zones, this project focused on reducing the impact of flooding on vulnerable regions.
• Plan Heat!: This idea revolved around identifying areas at risk for heatwaves and developing targeted warning systems.
• RailTBD: Focused on cost-effective railway infrastructure planning in developing countries using satellite data.
• SLED: Addressed inefficient energy usage with a focus on optimal solar panel placement and monitoring energy in existing installations.
• Doctor Digital Plant Defender: Combined satellite observations with AI technology to identify microbiological agents affecting humans, animals, and plants.

The Winning Pitch: Upstream’s Success

The hackathon culminated in a thrilling final pitch, where the Netherlands’ team Upstream won with their innovative approach to marine biosecurity.

Congratulations to the 3 winners of the 6th CASSINI Hackathon!

Adding to their accomplishment, members of the Upstream team had previously won a hackathon under the Iliad project, focusing on “Balancing Aquaculture and Marine Protected Areas for Food Security.” This prior victory highlights their consistent excellence and deep understanding of the delicate balance required in aquaculture within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

Iliad is an EU-funded project which aims to develop and launch virtual models of the ocean that will provide highly accurate predictions of future developments at global seas.

Keeping Up with Innovation

We’re preparing in-depth articles about the two winning projects, Upstream and oDam. To ensure you don’t miss these insights, subscribe to our newsletter for updates.

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Photo Credit: Dave Chapman