Today, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) launched MagQuest , a $1.2 million global open innovation challenge. NGA calls upon solvers to submit novel approaches to geomagnetic data collection for the World Magnetic Model (WMM).

This open innovation challenge is designed to attract new ideas to increase the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of geomagnetic data collection. With MagQuest, NGA aims to inspire domestic and international solvers to apply their expertise to spaceborne, aerial, terrestrial, and other potential solution areas. Solvers from small businesses, academic institutions, labs, startups, and other organizations are encouraged to enter the competition.

Learn more: Attend the informational webinar on April 4

To learn more about entering MagQuest, join our informational webinar on April 4, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. EDT. We’ll give an in-depth overview of the challenge and answer questions during a live Q&A. Register today!

Join MagQuest: Submit a concept by May 16

Those interested in participating should submit their concept  by 4:59 p.m. EDT on May 16, 2019. Up to 10 Phase 1 winners will be selected by the independent judging panel according to the Phase 1 selection criteria. The total Phase 1 prize pool of $200,000 will be distributed evenly across Phase 1 winners.

What’s next: Phase 2 and beyond

Phase 2 of MagQuest will be open to solvers from Phase 1, as well as new solvers who did not participate in the first phase of the challenge, and will award $1 million in cash prizes.

At NGA’s discretion, additional phases of the challenge may follow Phase 2. These phases, if executed, are anticipated to award an additional $2.5 million in cash prizes plus potential nonmonetary incentives, such as access to launch services and an advance market commitment. Read more about the challenge, including Phase 2 and potential additional phases.