Fostering Innovation in Space Sustainability

The European Space for Sustainability Award, established in 2012, aims to promote creative solutions for a more sustainable space industry. Sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Interparliamentary Space Conference (EISC), and the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI), the award seeks to address the environmental impact of space activities on Earth, in orbit, and beyond.

The competition is open to individuals or teams of up to four people aged 18-30 who reside in Europe, or in an ESA Member or Cooperating State. Candidates are required to submit posters summarizing their project ideas by May 3, 2026. A shortlist of projects will then be asked to submit a detailed report by June 21, 2026.

Award Benefits and Recognition

Winning the award provides significant visibility and support for research, and development. Dennis Jöckel, the 2025 first prize winner, noted that the award “gave my work on sustainable re-entry materials the visibility it deserves, and helped me win support and funding that will shape our research for years to come.”

• First place and special mention winners will present their project ideas at the European Interparliamentary Space Conference in Madrid, Spain, in September 2026.
• The first-place winner will participate in a dedicated mentorship program.
• Winners will have the opportunity to visit the European Astronaut Centre in Germany and potentially meet an astronaut.
• The first-place winner can spend two to four weeks as a visiting researcher at ESPI in Vienna, Austria.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can find detailed guidelines and the registration form on the award’s website. The deadline for poster submissions is May 3, 2026.

Further information is available on the Space for Sustainability website or by contacting marion.mirailles@ext.esa.int.