StellarXplorers

StellarXplorers is a national team competition that focused on the component selection and orbit design of simulated satellites in fictional space operations. Over several rounds during the year, we teach cadets how to plan a satellite mission—from picking the right orbit and parts to choosing a launch site that makes it all work.

Each team of six has six hours to score as many points in a round by modelling space systems with orbit simulation software and rapidly developing new algorithms to optimize a satellite's payload capacity, power systems, and radio uplink and downlink efficiency. Approximately 400 teams compete each year from across the country for the chance to place in the National Finals Round of only ten teams.

We also into teach topics like physics, space systems, and aerospace science. It’s a great way to get a head start if you're thinking about a future in STEM—or even if you're just curious about how space missions come together. It might sound intense at first, but don’t worry, it’s not as hard as it sounds. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to join. All it really takes is some effort, teamwork and enthusiasm. This team is perfect for people who think space is cool and want to make like minded friends. 

The CA-782nd supports two teams of six cadets each year to compete nationally. Since our corps' first StellarXplorers team was created in 2021, the cadets of our unit have placed in the highly-competitive National Finals Round three out of four years, travelling expenses-paid to the Johnson Space Center and the Denver Tech Center. Cadets who wish to join the program take a math and reading comprehension exam and an in-person interview after joining the CA-782nd.