The World Space Olympiad is an engineering competition for students with five categories: CanSat (mini-satellites on rockets), CubeSat (scientific space satellites), Inventors (solutions for global issues), Rovers (planet-exploring robots), and OuterWorlds (designing Earth colonies in space). The competition takes place in May 2026 in Almaty.
2023WSO is an engineering competition for school students from around the world in five categories: CanSat rocketry, Inventors engineering projects, CubeSat nanosatellites, Rovers, and OuterWorlds. Prizes include internships at leading national and private space companies and initiatives from sponsors.
Participate in one of five WSO categories, each offering unique learning and research opportunities.
Choose a category and register — each has its own registration form
In the CanSat World Space Olympiad category, participants design, build and launch a simulation of a satellite the size of a beverage can. After launching from a drone or rocket, CanSat must perform scientific tasks such as atmospheric data collection, parachute deployment, or controlled descent. It's an exciting hands—on challenge that combines aerospace engineering, programming, and teamwork - all in one compact mission. A great choice for future space engineers and innovators who are ready to take their ideas to new heights!
In the Inventors World Space Olympiad category, participants develop innovative aerospace projects that can change the future of space exploration. From new types of rocket engines to revolutionary technologies for space stations, here you can present your ideas and solutions for real space tasks. This is a great opportunity for young engineers and scientists to show their creativity and contribute to the development of space technologies.
In the CubeSat World Space Olympiad category, participants design and build small satellites that perform important scientific tasks such as Earth monitoring, telecommunications, or space exploration. These box-sized satellites can be launched into space and serve as an excellent platform for innovative technologies and experiments. Cubesats are a chance for young scientists and engineers to contribute to the development of space research using compact but powerful solutions.
In the Rovers World Space Olympiad category, participants develop and create robots designed to explore the surface of other planets and moons. These autonomous devices should be able to navigate complex landscapes, collect data, and perform scientific experiments. This is a chance for young engineers and researchers to show their skills in robotics and engineering, creating technologies that can help humanity in space exploration.
In the OuterWorlds World Space Olympiad category, teams design Earth colonies in space. Participants research celestial bodies for habitability conditions, select optimal locations for space settlements, and plan station architecture — from unique engineering solutions and alternative energy to light and heavy industry in space. The category covers over 30 key aspects essential for a functioning space colony. Skills include teamwork, general engineering, astrophysics, astrobiology, 3D modeling (Fusion 360, SolidWorks), marketing, chemistry, and AI.
Participation in WSO helps develop critical thinking, teamwork skills, and technical knowledge in the field of space technologies. It’s a unique opportunity for young people to dive into the world of science, engineering, and innovation, and to pave the way for future achievements in the aerospace industry.
countries participated in competitions
participants went through our programs since 2019
master classes held offline across all regions of Kazakhstan
championships organized by us
At the World Space Olympiad, we value innovation, collaboration, and the spirit of exploration, inspiring a new generation of space pioneers. We strive to nurture creativity, stimulate scientific curiosity, and provide a platform for young minds to push the boundaries of space technology.
Each WSO category develops skills used in real space projects — from engineering to teamwork and mission thinking.
WSO brings together teams from different countries into one environment for sharing experience. Winners and alumni return as mentors, and students help schoolchildren grow faster.
Experts from KGS, NASA, Baikonur, and other partner organizations guide participants and contribute to developing educational materials to keep the program at international standards.
We solve problems with creative ideas and persistence. WSO inspires participants to think beyond standard solutions and find new approaches.
We work with leading organizations and companies to provide exceptional opportunities for our participants and advance space education worldwide.
Join us in inspiring the next generation of space engineers and innovators. Partner with WSO to make a meaningful impact.
Discover what leading publications and organizations are saying about the World Space Olympiad and its impact on education and space exploration.
