NASA game jam to lift off March 8th

NASA is hosting a game jam to promote interest in science, space, and more especially the science of outer space.

"The Dark Side of the Jam" will take place from March 8th to the 10th at NASA Ames in Mountainview, California, but there are a number of satellite locations scattered around the US, and one in Brazil.

While NASA officially has nothing to do with the event, it is indirectly sponsoring the jam through the Night Rover Challenge, a project of the space agency’s Office of Centennial Challenges.

"The Dark Side of the Jam is open to all, whether you’re a veteran developer, hobbyist, or student," reads the event webpage.

"Ideally your games will not only be great achievements in coding prowess, but will help capture the public’s interest in the real science and technology advancements being made in aerospace exploration."

NASA has opened its complete catalogue of photos and assets for use by participants.

Those interested in participating or hosting their own jam location should visit the event website and guidelines.