UBD Team Wins Merit Award at International Space Challenge 2025
Universiti Brunei Darussalam has achieved a significant milestone at the International Space Challenge (ISC) 2025, with team UBD02 earning the Merit Award in the Advanced Category for their outstanding project. The team comprises of Muhammad Amirul Raziq bin Haji Rosman, Jayden Ang Phei Ern, Adam Nurirfan bin Jefri and Shazlinna Lyus Emmy bte Snnry Ecs. The 18th edition of the competition, held from 26–28 November 2025 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands Singapore carried the theme “Unlocking Space Capabilities Through AI”. The award was presented by Ms. Rahayu Mahzam, Singapore’s Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Mr Ang Jer Meng, Director of Air Systems, Defense Science and Technology Agency.
Their winning project, “Reinforcement Learning for Space Debris Avoidance and Capture,” explores the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to help satellites navigate safely in an increasingly crowded orbit. The project simulates a satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) making independent decisions using an AI model that enables them to avoid dangerous debris and capture important fragments without constant human supervision, making space operations safer and more efficient.
UBD also took part in the three-day international event through a space exhibition, featuring presentations by students and academics from the School of Digital Science and the Faculty of Integrated Technologies, alongside global exhibitors. The event was attended by industry professionals, youths, tech enthusiasts and government representatives including Singapore Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Ms. Grace Fu.
The event kicked off with the World Robot Olympiad International Final 2025, followed by the main space exhibition and the ISC Award Ceremony on the following day. Also in attendance was Vice Chancellor Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Dr Hj Abdul Hanif Bin Dato Paduka Hj Mahadi, Assistant Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Sustainability) as well as members of the Office of the Assistant Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Sustainability).
The recent memorandum of understanding signed with Space Faculty Pte Ltd has further expanded UBD’s opportunities in the global space ecosystem, strengthening its participation in initiatives like Expand Space 2025. UBD continues its commitment to advancing research and innovation, deepening international collaboration, and nurturing future-ready talent in space and digital technologies through STEAM education.