ATLAS Trio USM to Represent Malaysia at the Paris Air Show 2025 through Airbus Fly Your Ideas

We are proud to announce that ATLAS Trio USM, a team of third-year Aerospace Engineering students from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has been selected among the Top 3 global finalists in the prestigious Airbus Fly Your Ideas 2025 competition. With this recognition, the team will represent Malaysia and USM at the upcoming Paris Air Show 2025, one of the largest and most iconic aerospace exhibitions in the world.

Meet the Team :
● Milia Ainna Nadzira binti Jain – Team Leader
● Mohamed Syahmi bin Mohamed Sani – Technical Researcher
● Nelda Nathaneva Bokuli – Analyst
● Dr. Siti Harwani Md Yusoff. - Advisor

Our Concept: Cloud Colonies – A Floating Economy in Venus’ Atmosphere

Our submission, titled “Cloud Colonies,” explores the feasibility of developing sustainable floating platforms in the upper atmosphere of Venus,
specifically around 50 km altitude, where conditions are relatively temperate compared to the harsh surface environment. These platforms are envisioned for research, solar energy harvesting, and resource extraction while showcasing Airbus' strengths in aerodynamics, materials innovation, and sustainability.

The idea reflects our commitment to addressing climate resilience, long-term space exploration, and off-world resource independence. With support from our advisor and insights from Airbus experts, we refined our concept to align with both engineering feasibility and visionary potential.

Our Journey to the Top 3

Our journey began with registration in March 2025, followed by weeks of dedicated research and development. We submitted our proposal and introduction video by mid-April, marking the start of a challenging yet inspiring process. On 30th April, we were excited to learn we had reached the Top 6 worldwide. With detailed feedback from Airbus engineers, we refined our concept further with guidance from Dr. Siti Harwani and submitted our updated presentation by mid-May.

During the Top 6 global event on 15th May, we presented our concept to international panels and experts from Airbus. The pressure was intense, but the experience was invaluable. When we were announced as one of the Top 3 teams advancing to the final showcase at the Paris Air Show 2025, it felt surreal.

Next Stop: Paris Air Show 2025

We are now preparing to showcase our project at the Paris Air Show 2025, where we will not only compete for the top prize but also engage with professionals, industry leaders, and fellow innovators in the aerospace community. This journey has deepened our understanding of real-world aerospace challenges, strengthened our research and presentation skills, and inspired us to continue pushing boundaries in sustainable space exploration. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and proud to carry the USM and Malaysian flag into the future of aerospace.

Text and Photo : Dr. Siti Harwani Md Yussof