NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024: Cosmic Pathways

Cosmic Pathways is an interactive 3D web application that represents the solar system, with spatial markers highlighting images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). It allows users to visually explore the universe and learn more about each discovery. Developed for the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024, this tool combines education, astronomy, and original music, all in real-time within an immersive environment built with Three.js.

We won the local competition in Lisbon — among dozens of teams — and were featured by several institutions:

• FEUP news
• U.Porto article
• Pplware coverage

30 seconds video of the project: (if possible use headphones for a better immersive experience)

Idea and leadership

The idea to participate in this hackathon was mine. I invited three colleagues — Henrique Fernandes, Miguel Cabral, and Rodrigo Coelho — and proposed the theme that would eventually become Cosmic Pathways. We traveled to Lisbon, where we spent 48 intense hours programming, designing, and composing.

In addition to development, I brought music production gear and composed and mixed the original soundtrack on-site during the event, reinforcing the immersive and artistic dimension of the project.

Technologies

• Three.js — 3D visualization of the solar system and JWST points.
• HTML/CSS/JS — web app structure and interactivity.
• Figma — wireframes and navigation.
• Ableton Live + AKAI MPD — composition and production of the space-inspired soundtrack.
• GitHub — version control and collaboration.

Impact and learning

• Direct connection between science, art, and education, with strong potential in teaching and outreach.
• Significant personal growth in coordinating a multidisciplinary project under pressure.
• Official validation from NASA and public recognition for creativity and execution.

This experience had a deep impact on me. It was the perfect union of my passions: technology, music, and science.