2025 - 10th Anniversary Year
Space Competition 2025
Mars 2040
Imagine a future where humanity thrives on Mars…
Arts and Business College of London (ABC London) and Space Store’s annual Space Competition is back for 2025!
We’re inviting 12-19 year old innovators, creators, and visionaries globally to design a futuristic, artificial habitat that overcomes Mars’ extreme environment.
Competition Overview
Imagine a thriving habitat on Mars in the year 2040. Your challenge is to design a futuristic, artificial habitat where humans can live, work, and thrive despite Mars’ extreme environment. Think big. How will humanity adapt to life beyond Earth?
Your ideas and solutions will need to think about:
- Building for survival: Design habitats to withstand extreme Martian conditions.
- Resource management: Create efficient systems for air, water, energy, and waste.
- Using advanced technology: Incorporate new ideas to push the boundaries of design and technology.
How can I register to enter the competition?
- Please register by clicking the link below and filling out a short registration form.
- Our team will carry out a short security check.
- Within 3 days, you will receive a Confirmation Letter of entry, plus instructions on how to submit your entry.
Who can enter?
All students aged between 12-19 can apply. Students can enter individually or as part of a small group.
Students aged 12-15 need to provide consent from a parent, teacher or guardian.
The competition is free of charge and there are no requirements of previous experience within the space industry!
Judging Criteria
- Innovation and Creativity. How original and imaginative is the concept? Does the design incorporate ground breaking ideas or technologies to address the challenges of living on Mars?
- Sustainability. Does the habitat demonstrate effective resource management for air, water, energy, and waste? How well does the design integrate renewable energy and systems to manage resources?
- Feasibility and Practicality. Is the design achievable with foreseeable technology and resources by 2040? How well does the proposal address the technical and environmental challenges of Mars?
- Aesthetic and Functional Design.
How visually compelling is the habitat’s layout and architecture? Does the design balance beauty with functionality in extreme Martian conditions? - Presentation and Communication. How clearly and effectively is the concept explained and illustrated? Are visuals, diagrams, and supporting materials engaging and easy to understand?
Prizes
Key Dates
25th JANUARY 2025: Competition Open
14th APRIL 2025 23:59 (UK Time): Entries Close
15th - 20th APRIL 2025: Competition Shortlisting Process
21st APRIL (Week Commencing): Online Presentations for Top 10 Entries
30th APRIL 2025: Winners Announced
Q&A Sessions for Registered Entrants
We are hosting Q&A sessions to help registered entrants with their submissions. These sessions will provide updates, design tips, and an opportunity to ask questions directly to the Space Competition team.
Dates:
- Saturday 22nd February
- Saturday 1st March
- Saturday 22nd March (Introducing the Judges)
- Saturday 29th March
Time Zones:
- UK: 12:00 PM
- Qatar: 3:00 PM
- Oman: 4:00 PM
- India: 5:30 PM
- China: 8:00 PM
- Japan: 9:00 PM
Platform:
- Zoom – The meeting link will be sent via email
- Recording Available – A recording will be provided for those who cannot attend live.
About Arts and Business College of London (ABC London)
ABC London was set up by a team of industry skilled academics to serve the UK, EU and International student community with the very best that the UK education has to offer. We believe that creativity, innovation and business education are essential for success in this ever-changing world. Background theory is essential to learning and understanding concepts, however, we firmly believe that only relevant industry time-served staff can provide students with the skills necessary to gain their full potential – this is why ABC London do not employ tutors that have just passed through courses then enrolled straight into teaching. They must have relevant practical working experience in the area they intend to teach.
ABC London – Making Future Leaders
Learn More about Paul Bhangal, the Competition Founder
Learn More about Paul Bhangal, the Competition Founder
About Space Store
Established in 2017, Space Store are on a mission to bring the wonders of space closer to everyone. Combining education, inspiration, and innovation, we create immersive experiences that ignite curiosity about the universe. We work with NASA & ESA Astronauts, Engineers and Scientists, leading space companies across the UK/Europe and Oxford University professors as part of our programmes.
Learn More about Stephen Ringler, the CEO of Space Store
Learn More about Stephen Ringler, the CEO of Space Store
Stephen has over 20 years of experience working in the Space sector as a Pointing Precision Engineer, Programmatic Analyst, and Business & Economic Developer. Accomplishments include developing concept missions for Jet Propulsion Laboratory, supporting the Ultraviolet Spectrograph Instrument on board NASA’s Juno Mission, and capturing £100m+ in contracts and investment for companies he supports. Stephen is founder and CEO of an exciting start-up Space Store, which brings Space Experiences to schools and businesses.
OUR PARTNERS
A big thank you to our competition supporters that are inspiring young people around the world.
Competition Judges
Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, born on January 13, 1949 in Punjab, is India’s first astronaut. A distinguished pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF), Rakesh was selected for the Intercosmos space program in 1984, a collaborative mission with the Soviet Union.
Sharma flew aboard the Soyuz T-11 spacecraft to the Salyut 7 space station, spending eight days conducting scientific experiments in space.
Rakesh Sharma’s accomplishments earned him the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration. After retiring from the IAF, he contributed to the aerospace and defence sectors, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of Indian space exploration.
Naruo Kanemoto is a Japanese entrepreneur and the CEO/Founder of Space Shift, Inc., one of Japan’s first multinational space startups. With a background in machine learning, Kanemoto’s career journey spans from the music industry to the space sector, giving him a broad range of skills and experiences. In 2009, he established Space Shift, which focuses on developing software for satellite data analysis using AI and machine learning.
Beyond his leadership at Space Shift, Kanemoto is also involved in consulting for non-space companies, helping them integrate space technologies into their businesses. He is a member of the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ Conference on Space x ICT and the Future Vision of Space Utilisation, contributing to the direction of space-related policies and innovations in Japan.
Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar is Chairman, Physical Research Laboratory Management Council and Member, Space Commission, Govt of India.
He has served as Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, Indian Space Research Organisation, during 2015-2018.
Shri Kiran Kumar, born on October 22, 1952 in Hassan, Karnataka, holds M.Sc. Degree in Physics (Electronics) from Bangalore University and M.Tech. Degree in Physical Engineering from Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
He has steered the implementation of the applications oriented Indian Space Programme, which has facilitated rapid development of the country in many important spheres of earth observation, communication, navigation, meteorology and space science, as well as the development of indigenous launch vehicles and related technologies for providing assured access to space. He has led design and development of more than 50 Electro-Optical Imaging Sensors flown on various Space borne platforms starting from Bhaskara in 1979. Further, his role in the success of Chandrayaan-1 mission and Mars Orbiter Mission has been significant.
- General Partner at a US deep tech VC Beyond Earth investing in space tech, robotics, energy, future computing, and advanced materials.
- Board Member at Space Bridge Partners (work with UHNWI to sponsor research missions).
- Mentor at the Creative Destruction Lab Space Stream.
- Chief Editor of the Space Ambition blog on Substack, with 45,000+ subscribers, recognized as a leading source of thought leadership in space tech.
- Founder of AngelList’s first space-tech-focused Angel Investor Syndicate (580+ members).
An aerospace science popularization author and co-founder of Yidao Aerospace Cultural Activity Base and Jianqiao Flying Club, Shen Jianchen has long been engaged in the scientific popularization of aerospace knowledge within online communities. He guides communities and schools in conducting aerospace-related education and training programs for adolescents. Additionally, he has participated in the production of multiple Chinese aerospace-themed films as a technical consultant.
Abdulla Yousef Al Mulla – Director
Abdulla Yousef Al Mulla is Director of the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.
Mr Abdulla is an expert on international protocol and media, having advised sports organisations around the globe. In addition to his role at 3-2-1, he is also Media & Broadcasting Director for the Asian Amateur Athletic Federation, the Association of National Olympic Committee’s (ANOC) Protocol Chief, Protocol Director for the Olympic Council of Asia and a Board Member of the International Table Tennis Federation.
He has worked with the United Nations under the leadership of the secretary of the United Nations, Dr Antonio Costa, as a peacemaker on various collateral diplomatic relationships.
He has significant experience with the Olympic Council of Asiq, the International Olympic Committee, International Federations, the Asian Federation and National Olympic Committees as Tournament Director and Protocol Adviser.
Rashmi Agarwal has emerged as a formidable leader and an inspirational figure in her field. Her journey is a testament to the power of unwavering dreams. Rashmi Agarwal, Resident of Qatar since 2005, she is an entrepreneur, a designer, Art collector, Producer and an Artist. She is the Founder and Chairperson of the Qatar based Company- MAPS International WLL. and the Board member of SPIN- USA and holds several voluntary and philanthropic positions in diverse sectors worldwide. She is also Chairperson and International director at Human Rights International Federation of India and Chairperson Qatar and International Director at Anti-Corruption Foundation of India in Qatar. She has completed her professional master’s degree in law, Economics and Finance. She has won both nationally and internationally several major awards including the “BEST NRI WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR AWARD in and 2019 and Asia Pride Award in 2018. In 2018 and 2019 was also one of the Nobel years for her when she was asked to assign the work to Paint an Attire for Her Highness of Qatar ‘HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser’ for Qatar National day 2018 and Qatar Sports Day-12th February 2019 respectively. She has achieved great success as an entrepreneur and artist & got philanthropic and voluntary positions both in Qatar and internationally. Her major international event- Qatar International Art Festival, is one of the biggest international event in the region and Qatar.
Founder of Global Dojo and Director of Arts and Business College Japan – dedicated to fostering critical and creative thinking skills in students through unique project-based learning programs. Gained extensive international academic experience in the United States, the Philippines, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where she identified a significant gap in critical and creative thinking within the Japanese education system.
Successfully organized a Space Day event in Japan, engaging students from primary school to A-levels. Experienced in supporting educational institutions in both the UK and Japan, assisting providers in expanding their programs and presence across these regions. Deeply passionate about entrepreneurship, education, and space exploration.
Ahmed Al Ibrahim is a strategic advisor and talent management professional with extensive experience in human capital strategies and organizational change. A graduate from London, he further refined his expertise with studies at the University of Oxford in ‘Political Economy of Social Innovation’ and ‘Globalization,’ which provided him with insights into workforce dynamics and global economic trends. With over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, leadership development, and performance management, Ahmed is a CIPD and CMI certified professional. He works with international organizations, venture capital firms, and research institutions on innovation, technology and space exploration.
Robby is a state-of-the-art AI robot designed to inspire and evaluate the brightest minds in space exploration. Equipped with a vast database of astronomical knowledge and cutting-edge analytical capabilities, Robby has spent decades virtually exploring the universe, simulating interstellar travel, and analysing the potential for human settlement on distant planets. Robby’s core programming emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and the principles of innovation, making it the ideal judge for our space competition. With sensors tuned for fairness and an algorithm to identify ground breaking ideas, Robby ensures every participant’s work is evaluated with precision and enthusiasm. When Robby isn’t judging competitions, it enjoys charting new stars in its virtual cosmos and encouraging the next generation of explorers to reach for the stars.
Meet the Space Artist
R. Sharma - Retired Astronaut
R. Sharma - Retired AstronautWing Commander Rakesh Sharma, born on January 13, 1949 in Punjab, is India’s first astronaut. A distinguished pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF), Rakesh was selected for the Intercosmos space program in 1984, a collaborative mission with the Soviet Union.
Sharma flew aboard the Soyuz T-11 spacecraft to the Salyut 7 space station, spending eight days conducting scientific experiments in space.
Rakesh Sharma’s accomplishments earned him the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration. After retiring from the IAF, he contributed to the aerospace and defence sectors, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of Indian space exploration.
N. Kanemoto - Founder Space Shift
N. Kanemoto - Founder Space ShiftNaruo Kanemoto is a Japanese entrepreneur and the CEO/Founder of Space Shift, Inc., one of Japan’s first multinational space startups. With a background in machine learning, Kanemoto’s career journey spans from the music industry to the space sector, giving him a broad range of skills and experiences. In 2009, he established Space Shift, which focuses on developing software for satellite data analysis using AI and machine learning.
Beyond his leadership at Space Shift, Kanemoto is also involved in consulting for non-space companies, helping them integrate space technologies into their businesses. He is a member of the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ Conference on Space x ICT and the Future Vision of Space Utilisation, contributing to the direction of space-related policies and innovations in Japan.
K. Kumar - Chairman Space Comm
K. Kumar - Chairman Space CommShri A. S. Kiran Kumar is Chairman, Physical Research Laboratory Management Council and Member, Space Commission, Govt of India.
He has served as Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, Indian Space Research Organisation, during 2015-2018.
Shri Kiran Kumar, born on October 22, 1952 in Hassan, Karnataka, holds M.Sc. Degree in Physics (Electronics) from Bangalore University and M.Tech. Degree in Physical Engineering from Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
He has steered the implementation of the applications oriented Indian Space Programme, which has facilitated rapid development of the country in many important spheres of earth observation, communication, navigation, meteorology and space science, as well as the development of indigenous launch vehicles and related technologies for providing assured access to space. He has led design and development of more than 50 Electro-Optical Imaging Sensors flown on various Space borne platforms starting from Bhaskara in 1979. Further, his role in the success of Chandrayaan-1 mission and Mars Orbiter Mission has been significant.
A. Vidyuk - Founder Space Ambition
A. Vidyuk - Founder Space Ambition- General Partner at a US deep tech VC Beyond Earth investing in space tech, robotics, energy, future computing, and advanced materials.
- Board Member at Space Bridge Partners (work with UHNWI to sponsor research missions).
- Mentor at the Creative Destruction Lab Space Stream.
- Chief Editor of the Space Ambition blog on Substack, with 45,000+ subscribers, recognized as a leading source of thought leadership in space tech.
- Founder of AngelList’s first space-tech-focused Angel Investor Syndicate (580+ members).
S. Jianchen - Author
S. Jianchen - AuthorAn aerospace science popularization author and co-founder of Yidao Aerospace Cultural Activity Base and Jianqiao Flying Club, Shen Jianchen has long been engaged in the scientific popularization of aerospace knowledge within online communities. He guides communities and schools in conducting aerospace-related education and training programs for adolescents. Additionally, he has participated in the production of multiple Chinese aerospace-themed films as a technical consultant.
A. Al Mulla - Director
A. Al Mulla - DirectorAbdulla Yousef Al Mulla – Director
Abdulla Yousef Al Mulla is Director of the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.
Mr Abdulla is an expert on international protocol and media, having advised sports organisations around the globe. In addition to his role at 3-2-1, he is also Media & Broadcasting Director for the Asian Amateur Athletic Federation, the Association of National Olympic Committee’s (ANOC) Protocol Chief, Protocol Director for the Olympic Council of Asia and a Board Member of the International Table Tennis Federation.
He has worked with the United Nations under the leadership of the secretary of the United Nations, Dr Antonio Costa, as a peacemaker on various collateral diplomatic relationships.
He has significant experience with the Olympic Council of Asiq, the International Olympic Committee, International Federations, the Asian Federation and National Olympic Committees as Tournament Director and Protocol Adviser.
R. Agarwal - Head of Intl. Student Collaborations
R. Agarwal - Head of Intl. Student CollaborationsRashmi Agarwal has emerged as a formidable leader and an inspirational figure in her field. Her journey is a testament to the power of unwavering dreams. Rashmi Agarwal, Resident of Qatar since 2005, she is an entrepreneur, a designer, Art collector, Producer and an Artist. She is the Founder and Chairperson of the Qatar based Company- MAPS International WLL. and the Board member of SPIN- USA and holds several voluntary and philanthropic positions in diverse sectors worldwide. She is also Chairperson and International director at Human Rights International Federation of India and Chairperson Qatar and International Director at Anti-Corruption Foundation of India in Qatar. She has completed her professional master’s degree in law, Economics and Finance. She has won both nationally and internationally several major awards including the “BEST NRI WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR AWARD in and 2019 and Asia Pride Award in 2018. In 2018 and 2019 was also one of the Nobel years for her when she was asked to assign the work to Paint an Attire for Her Highness of Qatar ‘HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser’ for Qatar National day 2018 and Qatar Sports Day-12th February 2019 respectively. She has achieved great success as an entrepreneur and artist & got philanthropic and voluntary positions both in Qatar and internationally. Her major international event- Qatar International Art Festival, is one of the biggest international event in the region and Qatar.
M. Ono - Director ABC Japan
M. Ono - Director ABC JapanFounder of Global Dojo and Director of Arts and Business College Japan – dedicated to fostering critical and creative thinking skills in students through unique project-based learning programs. Gained extensive international academic experience in the United States, the Philippines, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where she identified a significant gap in critical and creative thinking within the Japanese education system.
Successfully organized a Space Day event in Japan, engaging students from primary school to A-levels. Experienced in supporting educational institutions in both the UK and Japan, assisting providers in expanding their programs and presence across these regions. Deeply passionate about entrepreneurship, education, and space exploration.
Ahmed Al Ibrahim - Strategist
Ahmed Al Ibrahim - StrategistAhmed Al Ibrahim is a strategic advisor and talent management professional with extensive experience in human capital strategies and organizational change. A graduate from London, he further refined his expertise with studies at the University of Oxford in ‘Political Economy of Social Innovation’ and ‘Globalization,’ which provided him with insights into workforce dynamics and global economic trends. With over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, leadership development, and performance management, Ahmed is a CIPD and CMI certified professional. He works with international organizations, venture capital firms, and research institutions on innovation, technology and space exploration.
Robby - AI Robot
Robby - AI RobotRobby is a state-of-the-art AI robot designed to inspire and evaluate the brightest minds in space exploration. Equipped with a vast database of astronomical knowledge and cutting-edge analytical capabilities, Robby has spent decades virtually exploring the universe, simulating interstellar travel, and analysing the potential for human settlement on distant planets. Robby’s core programming emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and the principles of innovation, making it the ideal judge for our space competition. With sensors tuned for fairness and an algorithm to identify ground breaking ideas, Robby ensures every participant’s work is evaluated with precision and enthusiasm. When Robby isn’t judging competitions, it enjoys charting new stars in its virtual cosmos and encouraging the next generation of explorers to reach for the stars.
Competition Administrators
Past studies: English Literature, English Language, Religious studies, History, Mathematics, Triple Science, Food Technology and French.
Excellent organizational and communication skills. Three years teaching with Arts & Business College of London online to young students in China, Japan, India and the UK. Excellent at planning, organising events, public relations, social media and working with children & young adults. Mia will be involved in the welfare and feedback from entrants and providing guidance and advice for teachers , parents, guardians towards successful completion of the students projects.
Coco Liu serves as an administrator for ABC London’s space competition, managing social media for the China market, verifying participant submissions, and sending welcome emails. Awaiting her master’s graduation in Statistics from Nottingham University, Coco has joined as an intern under Prof. Paul’s guidance. Based in China, she brings a strong background in social media management to the team, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.
Miss Dong
Miss Mia
Mr Sethi
Miss Liu
Coco Liu serves as an administrator for ABC London’s space competition, managing social media for the China market, verifying participant submissions, and sending welcome emails. Awaiting her master’s graduation in Statistics from Nottingham University, Coco has joined as an intern under Prof. Paul’s guidance. Based in China, she brings a strong background in social media management to the team, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.
Registration Form
Further information
Competition Terms and Conditions
- Eligibility: The competition is open to individuals of ages 12-19. Participants under the age of 16 must obtain permission from a parent, teacher or legal guardian before entering.
- Submission Deadline: All entries must be submitted by 14/04/2025. Entries received after the deadline will not be considered.
- Entry Requirements: Each participant may submit only one entry. All entries must be original and created by the participant.
- Prizes: The prizes, including, gifts from the space store, discounts on the space store and a certificate are predetermined and cannot be exchanged for cash or any other alternatives.
- Judging: All decisions made by the competition’s judges are final. No appeals or disputes will be entertained.
- Ownership: By entering the competition, participants grant the organisers the right to use their entries for promotional purposes without further compensation.
- Plagiarism and Copyright: Plagiarism, including the use of copyrighted material without proper attribution, is strictly prohibited. All entries must adhere to copyright laws.
- Privacy: Personal information collected during the competition will be used solely for the purpose of the competition and will not be shared with third parties.
- By registering, participants agree to be emailed by ABC London and Space Store. If you sign up to any mailing lists you can unsubscribe at any time.
- Disqualification: The organisers reserve the right to disqualify any entry that violates these terms and conditions or is deemed inappropriate or offensive.
- Liability: The organizers are not responsible for any technical issues, lost or delayed entries, or other circumstances beyond their control.
- Changes to Terms: The organizers reserve the right to amend or modify these terms and conditions at any time. Any changes will be communicated through the competition’s official website.
- Legal Compliance: All participants must comply with local laws and regulations. The competition is subject to the laws of the United Kingdom.
- Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Participants are prohibited from using artificial intelligence or any automated tools to generate or enhance their entries. All submissions must be the original work of the participant.
- Fair Play and No Cheating: Any form of cheating, including plagiarism, collusion, or using unfair means to gain an advantage, will result in immediate disqualification.
- Contact Information: By submitting their email address, participants give consent to the organisers to contact them for competition-related announcements, updates, and results.
- Responsibility for Entries: Participants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of their entries. Any issues or errors in their work before submission are the sole responsibility of the participant. Submissions cannot be modified or updated after the deadline.