India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge
A data challenge for Indian high school students to analyze exoplanet data — ₹9.58 lakh prize pool.
- Funding amount
- ₹9.3L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- 31 Jul 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge is a beginner-friendly hackathon that invites Indian high school students to dive into real astronomical data. Organised by Celesta, the challenge focuses on exoplanet identification and characterisation, providing hands-on experience in data analysis and machine learning—with minimal to no coding required.
The competition runs entirely online from June 15 to July 31, 2026. Participants can work individually or in teams (team size not specified) and must submit their findings by the deadline. Submissions are judged on accuracy, creativity, and clarity of presentation.
With a total prize pool of ₹9.58 lakh, this is an excellent opportunity for young students to explore STEM fields, build analytical skills, and win cash prizes. Registration is free—simply sign up via the official Devpost page linked above.
Highlights
- Up to ₹9.58 lakh prize pool
- For Indian high school students
- Online data challenge (June 15 - July 31, 2026)
- Hands-on data analysis & ML
Who can apply
Only Indian high school students are eligible. No prior coding experience needed—the challenge is designed for beginners. Teams are allowed (no size limit specified).
India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
Applications for India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge are open and the current deadline is 31 Jul 2026. Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Total prize pool of ₹9.58 lakh distributed across the top submissions. Prizes are awarded for accuracy, creativity, and clarity of analysis.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹9.3L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the prize pool?
The total prize pool is ₹9.58 lakh, distributed across top submissions.
Who can apply?
Only Indian high school students are eligible. No prior coding experience is required.
Can I apply in a team?
Yes, teams are allowed, though the maximum team size has not been specified.
What is the application deadline?
The challenge runs from June 15 to July 31, 2026. Submissions must be made by July 31, 2026.
Is there an application fee?
No. Registration is free via the Devpost page.
What kind of data and analysis will I work on?
You will work on real astronomical data to identify and characterise exoplanets using data analysis and machine learning techniques. The challenge is designed to be low-code/no-code, so you don't need programming skills.
How are submissions judged?
Submissions are judged based on accuracy, creativity, and clarity of presentation.
Where do I apply?
You must register on the official Devpost page: https://celesta-exoplanet-challenge.devpost.com/
Does India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge take equity?
No. India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge is competition and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Is DPIIT recognition required for India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
How do I apply for India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge
Not sure India High School Exoplanet Data Challenge is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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