ActInSpace, the hackathon dedicated to space applications

Want to take on an innovative challenge or get your ideas off the ground? ActInSpace returns to Montpellier on January 30 and 31, 2026, for 24 hours of exploration, creativity, and innovation around space technologies.

Whether you are a student, researcher, or simply curious, come and enjoy a unique experience combining science, entrepreneurship, and imagination!

ActInSpace: 24 hours to imagine tomorrow's innovations

Organized by the Montpellier BIC and Aerospace Valley at IAE Montpellier – University of Montpellier (Triolet campus), ActInSpace is an international event designed by CNES and the European Space Agency (ESA).

The principle? Working as a team to devise an innovative product or service based on patented space technologies or satellite data.

The goal? To offer an innovation capable of improving everyday life!

An event open to everyone

No technical prerequisites: students, doctoral students, researchers, entrepreneurs, enthusiasts, or curious minds... everyone can participate.
Teams (2 to 5 people) will benefit from the support of coaches who are experts in innovation, entrepreneurship, space technologies, and project modeling.

A complete experience, from idea to final pitch

For 24 hours, you will be able to:

• stimulate your creativity and entrepreneurial spirit;
• discover the practical applications of space technology;
• work as part of a team in a stimulating and friendly environment;
• pitch your project to a panel of professionals.

The winning team will represent Montpellier in the French final and then the international final in Bordeaux (April 1 and 2, 2026), with some exceptional experiences up for grabs: a zero-G flight or an invitation to the Ariane launch in French Guiana.

What next?

Project leaders wishing to take their projects further can benefit from support from the Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole Business Innovation Center (BIC) or local partners.