

Pitch Contest: AI-powered Satellites for KSA | DPhi Space x LEAP 2026
Overview
DPhi Space is inviting LEAP 2026 attendees to join a Pitch Competition at the Space Stage, challenging participants to develop AI-powered satellite intelligence applications that can create meaningful impact for Saudi Arabia.
DPhi Space is building the next generation of intelligent satellites equipped with onboard computing, enabling AI models to run directly in orbit. By processing data in space instead of transmitting massive volumes of raw imagery to Earth, these satellites can deliver actionable insights in near real time, unlocking an entirely new generation of satellite applications.
Learn more about DPhi Space's ongoing mission: watch video
The competition challenges participants to pitch their ideas for innovative applications that combine satellite imagery with onboard AI to solve real-world problems and generate value for Saudi Arabia.
Timeline
Monday 31/08, 14:00 - Kick-off at Space Stage
15-minute introduction to DPhi Space's smart satellites. Competition overview and requirements.
Tuesday 01/09, 15:00 - Submission deadline
Participants submit their projects through the online submission form.
Tuesday 01/09, 18:15 - Closing at Space Stage
Live presentations from the Top 3 finalists. Public voting and winner announcement.
Deliverables
Each submission should include:
Pitch presentation, with the problem statement, proposed application, and expected impact for Saudi Arabia.
(Optional) Proof-of-concept, an initial prototype or demo showcasing the proposed solution. Projects with a proof-of-concept will be rewarded with extra points.
Participation
Every participant must register individually through this page.
Projects may be submitted individually or in teams of up to 4 participants.
Judging Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
Effective use of satellite imagery and onboard AI capabilities
Innovation and problem–solution fit
Potential impact for Saudi Arabia
Optional: quality of the proof of concept and technical implementation
After an initial review, the Top 3 teams will be invited to present their projects during a 2-minute live pitch on the Space Stage.
The winning team will be selected through public voting.
Prize
The winning team will receive the unique opportunity to run their application free of charge on DPhi Space's AI server currently operating in orbit, launched in March 2026.
Resources
Discord Community
The Discord server is the main communication hub before and during the competition. Participants can:
Find teammates
Share ideas
Ask questions
Receive competition updates
Join here: https://discord.gg/kzCH3GkV3
SimSat GitHub Repository
For participants who want to build a prototype, the repository includes:
SimSat, DPhi Space's simplified satellite simulator
Example projects from a previous DPhi Space and LiquidAI hackathon, which can be used for inspiration
Repository: https://github.com/DPhi-Space/SimSat
Ready to Build the Future of Space AI?
Register today, form your team, and start building the next generation of AI-powered satellite applications.
See you in orbit! 🚀