Rocky Worlds DDT Data Challenge and Data Challenge Workshop

The Rocky Worlds DDT Core Implementation Team (CIT) will soon launch the Rocky Worlds DDT Data Challenge, aimed at engaging the community in the analysis and interpretation of JWST MIRI 15 μm time series observations of terrestrial exoplanets in eclipse. The Data Challenge will feature two JWST MIRI 15 μm Time Series Observation (TSO) datasets:

• Actual JWST MIRI observations of GJ 3929 b obtained as part of the Rocky Worlds program, and
• Simulated observations of LHS 1140 b, designed to resemble data the program will obtain in the future.

Participants will be invited to analyze the datasets and submit their results, with the goal of comparing methodologies and identifying best practices for studying rocky exoplanet atmospheres.

The Data Challenge is expected to open in late April 2026 and run through late August 2026. It will culminate with the Rocky Worlds DDT Data Challenge Workshop, held on November 16–18, 2026 at Space Telescope Science Institute.

The workshop will bring together Data Challenge participants to present their findings, exchange ideas, and develop a set of best practices for data reduction of MIRI TSO photometry. There will be opportunities for contributed talks, a one-day school aimed at early career researchers, and a mini hackathon to test out algorithms and compare pipelines. One or more community publications may emerge from this effort.

More details, including dataset descriptions, participation guidelines, and workshop logistics, will be shared in the coming months. Researchers interested in participating or receiving updates on Rocky Worlds DDT–related news and announcements should sign up for the Rocky Worlds DDT News Mailing List. Questions may be sent to [email protected].

Astrobiology,