Introduction

The 2026 Rocky Worlds DDT Data Challenge, released in May 20, 2026, is a community engagement activity on which participants submit results on their analyses of two datasets:

• 4 real eclipse observations of GJ 3929 b, gathered by JWST-DDT-9235 as part of the Rocky Worlds DDT.
• 9 simulated eclipse observations of LHS 1140 b, designed to closely follow the planned observing strategy for JWST-DDT-12498 as part of the Rocky Worlds DDT.

The challenge is designed to engage the broader community in analyzing and interpreting JWST MIRI 15 μm time-series observations of terrestrial exoplanets in secondary eclipse, compare analysis methodologies, identify best practices, and help prepare the community to interpret rocky exoplanet atmosphere observations with JWST and with the Rocky Worlds DDT in particular.

How to Participate

Anyone is welcome to participate in the Data Challenge. Detailed instructions on the datasets, as well as how to submit results can be found in the official Kaggle page of the Data Challenge.

Introduction

The Rocky Worlds DDT Core Implementation Team is pleased to announce the launch of a new, community-led effort to enable collaboration and coordination around Rocky Worlds DDT science: the Rocky Worlds DDT Community Involvement Initiative (CII).

The CII provides an open forum for individuals and research groups working on Rocky Worlds DDT data to exchange ideas and information. Its goal is to help grow the scope, impact, and scientific return of the program by facilitating communication on topics such as analysis techniques, complementary and follow-up observations, project ideas, and plans for publications. It follows many of the principles that contributed to the success of the TESS Follow-up Observing Program (TFOP): enabling community members to connect, share information and data products, and coordinate efforts while preserving openness and scientific independence.

The CII will be supported and overseen by a Community Involvement Board (CIB), a standing body that will be composed of members of the astronomical community and appointed through an open call. The role of the CIB is to promote broad and transparent participation in the initiative and to ensure that community interactions follow the CII’s Code of Conduct. Full details on the scope, governance, and expectations of the CII and CIB are provided in the Rocky Worlds DDT CII Charter.

How to Join

To join the Community Involvement Initiative and/or nominate yourself to serve on the Community Involvement Board (CIB), please fill out this form. Nominations for the CIB will be accepted through July 17, 2026. There is no deadline to join the CII and no cap on involvement.

The Rocky Worlds DDT Core Implementation Team (CIT) has setup a mailing list on which regular updates about the program are constantly shared. You may join the list by clicking on the link above.