Humphreys Middle School Students Excel in NASA App Development Challenge

CAMP HUMPHREYS – Humphreys Middle School (HMS), located at Camp Humphreys in South Korea, marked an exciting milestone this year by participating in the prestigious NASA App Development Challenge (ADC) for the first time. This 10-week challenge, running from October to December, invited middle and high school students nationwide to develop apps that visualize the Artemis II flight path and display real-time communication links to Earth.

On Friday, January 17, 2025, HMS received thrilling news: their team, the Noodle Navigators, advanced to the interview stage! With only two school days to prepare, students submitted written responses and geared up for a 6 a.m. virtual interview with NASA experts, overcoming the Houston–South Korea time zone difference. The team presented their app, answered technical questions, and gained valuable feedback from NASA personnel.

"This challenge has been amazing for the students,” said Col. Heather Levy, a proud parent.
“Tremendous thanks to NASA, HMS, and Ms. Nunes, the lead teacher, for offering the opportunity. The students put in a ton of hours—weekends and early mornings—to finish the app, and it paid off!"

The Noodle Navigators designed their app with features such as a 3D visualization of the Artemis II mission, a user-friendly interface, and an innovative antenna prioritization system. The team worked collaboratively using technologies like React, Three.js, and Onshape, even overcoming challenges like debugging complex issues and learning new coding languages. Their application even includes a time warp feature, allowing users to adjust the mission's speed dynamically.

"I loved every part of this challenge, from the early mornings to long hours, and I wouldn’t change a thing,” said Avah “Apollo” Arbogast, a 6th-grade team member.

Beyond coding, the Noodle Navigators inspired others through community outreach. Their events included "Hour of Code" workshops for 5th graders, a STEM Night, and virtual Q&A sessions with NASA subject matter expert Dr. Gary Kitmacher. The team prioritized accessibility, experimenting with Circuit Playground Express for users with disabilities, and fostering inclusivity throughout their work.

"I'm so proud of our students,” said CW3 Richard Chapman, a Noodle Navigator parent. “They built their app from the ground up, learning the coding language as they went. What impressed me most was how they grew as leaders and teammates during the semester."

The ADC has left a lasting impression on the students, inspiring career aspirations in STEM fields and strengthening teamwork and problem-solving skills. With the interview completed, the HMS team eagerly awaits February 25, when NASA will announce the top teams selected for the culminating event in Houston.

"I had a lot of fun during the challenge and learned new skills,” said Grace Kim, a 7th-grade Noodle Navigator team member. “Now that it’s over, I’m so proud of how I contributed!"

This experience has not only showcased HMS’s dedication to excellence but also solidified its place in the Artemis Generation. The students’ hard work, creativity, and resilience reflect the spirit of exploration and innovation that NASA’s missions inspire.