The Noodle Navigators: Failing Faster, Reaching Further
At Humphreys Middle School in Camp Humphreys, South Korea, a team of young innovators is tackling the NASA App Development Challenge with passion, creativity, and determination. Known as the Noodle Navigators, this group of boys and girls from grades 5-8 is designing and coding an app to visualize the Artemis II flight path. They are the only team participating from outside the United States, representing not just their school but the spirit of military families stationed overseas.
From the start, the Noodle Navigators have embraced challenges head-on. Most began with no coding experience and none with knowledge of JavaScript. Yet, their ingenuity and perseverance have shone through, overcoming hurdles like technical restrictions by turning to web-based tools such as Replit and Onshape. Their philosophy, captured in their name and motto—“We Fail Faster”—reminds them that every misstep is a chance to learn and grow.
The time difference has added another layer of complexity. Challenge events, including the live kick-off, are scheduled between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Central Time, requiring the team to gather at school as early as 6:00 AM to participate. Despite the early hours, the Navigators have shown up with energy and enthusiasm, cheering each other on as they connect with teams around the world.
The team’s strength comes not just from within but also from their community. One key mentor is PFC Kwangje Sa of the 719th Military Intelligence Battalion HHSC, who brings a wealth of expertise in data science and economics from his time at the University of Rochester. His guidance has been instrumental in helping the team tackle complex problems and refine their approach, providing real-world insights to support their coding journey.
Beyond the competition, the Noodle Navigators are making an impact. They’ve led Hour of Code sessions with fifth-grade classrooms, introducing younger students to coding and testing online activities for QuanTime. Acting as both learners and teachers, they are igniting a passion for STEM in the next generation and proving that innovation is a shared journey.
With the December 11th deadline approaching which will signal the end of the NASA App Development Challenge, the Noodle Navigators are demonstrating resilience, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to their mission. They represent not only the diversity of military-connected families but also the limitless potential of students willing to embrace challenges and push boundaries.
Their story is one of community, creativity, and courage. Whether rising before dawn to join live events, collaborating with local experts, or mentoring younger students, the Noodle Navigators embody the spirit of exploration and innovation.
To the Noodle Navigators: Fail faster, rise earlier, and navigate further. Your journey is an inspiration—and the stars are only the beginning.
