April 18, 2025 Monthly Meeting – The Western Meteor Physics Gang – NASA Space Apps Challenge

Have you heard of the NASA Space Apps Challenge? Well, here are the numbers:

  • 93,520 Participants 
  • 15,444 Teams
  • 163 Countries
  • 9,996 Projects 
  • 15 Space Agencies
  • 10 projects chosen,
  • 1 project from Western won, and you get to hear all about it in-person!

The Western Meteor Physics Gang from Western University recently captured international acclaim by winning the “Best Use of Science” award in NASA’s Space Apps Challenge. SkyShield is a 3D solar system visualization app that highlights and maps potential Earth-threatening asteroids and dangerous meteoroids vital for satellite safety. Built in just 30 hours, this innovative app stands out for its scientific accuracy, elevating educational tools in physics and astronomy.  Wow! Take a moment and have a look at their Neo-orrery app, it’s amazing.  We’ll have team members Max, Dakota, Simon, and Ian in-house to present their work and discuss their accomplishments with SkyShield. 

A reminder that April 18th is Good Friday and, yes, we’re still having a meeting!  I hope you are able to take the time and come by Cronyn to support local space science.

Our meeting will begin at 7:30pm. You can attend in person at the Cronyn Observatory on the Western campus, or join us via Zoom at:  
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89015777788 (or use the Zoom app with meeting ID 89015777788 with no password)