The Planetary Defence Challenge invites secondary school students (ages 15–17) across Luxembourg to become space scientists for a mission: protecting Earth from an asteroid impact.
By linking classroom learning to a real-world space challenge, the project sparks curiosity in STEM subjects, showing students how mathematics, physics, and teamwork come together to solve one of humanity’s most dramatic scientific problems.
Through interactive sessions, mentoring, and teamwork, students learn how scientists detect asteroids, assess impact risks, and coordinate international responses. The challenge combines mathematics, physics, and social studies to show how global cooperation and scientific reasoning can help safeguard our planet.
What Students Do
- Learn about asteroid detection, tracking, and deflection strategies.
- Explore real missions such as NASA’s DART and ESA’s Hera.
- Analyse genuine asteroid data through the Virtual Telescope Project, guided by professional astronomers.
- Benefit from expert mentoring in space science.
- Design and present their own planetary defence plan in teams of 4-5 people for a simulated asteroid threat.
The most outstanding projects are recognised during the Asteroid Day Festival in Luxembourg, where the winning teams receive fun prizes — and the best project team gets a unique opportunity to name a real asteroid.
Session 1 – Introduction to Planetary Defence
A planetary scientist introduces asteroids, their role in the Solar System, and why defending Earth matters.
Session 2 – International Collaboration and Communication (online)
Students explore how global organisations, such as the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), coordinate international responses to asteroid risks.
Session 3 – Simulated Scenario with Dr Patrick Michel
Guided by the renowned planetary scientist, students collaborate in teams to design and present a defence strategy for a simulated asteroid impact.
Recognition – At the Asteroid Day Festival on 27 June at Cercle Cite
The winning projects will be recognised and announced by the international experts and astronauts.
Support for Teachers
Participating schools receive:
- Classroom materials, exercises, and videos.
- Access to mentoring by space science and astronomy experts.
- Certificates of participation for teachers and students.
Timeline 2026
- November–December: Registration of schools and teachers
- February–March/April: Expert sessions and classroom activities
- 27 June: Presentation of the winning project and recognition at the Asteroid Day Festival
To register your class, please contact info@asteroidfoundation.org
The Planetary Defence Challenge is a part of ASPIRE project of the Asteroid Foundation, powered by Luxembourg Space Agency, supported by The Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR) and Fondation André Losch.