The European Space Agency (ESA) is launching the EO Excellence Award 2026. The prize recognizes young researchers who, through creative approaches to the use of Earth observation (EO) data, are opening up new perspectives for science, industry, and the environment. The aim is to promote young talent in Europe who are making a crucial contribution to our understanding of the planet through data-driven research.
Application deadline: December 10th, prize money up to €65,000
Two awards will be given: one to an individual and one to a team. The individual award is endowed with up to €35,000, and the team award with up to €65,000. This funding is intended to support the further development and implementation of the research projects. An independent jury from the European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC) of the European Science Foundation (ESF) will review the submissions. The winners will be announced in March 2026.
The application period runs until December 10, 2025. Individuals or teams can participate, either by nominating themselves or by being nominated by mentors or supporters.
How to apply
The application process for the EO Excellence Award is structured as follows: Researchers can nominate themselves or initiate a nomination by a third party. After nomination, participants receive confirmation with a link to the official nomination platform. There, they must upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Short bibliography
- Project description of the nominated research project
For supporters: Anyone wishing to nominate an individual or research team must first obtain the consent of the person or group in question. A one-page nomination letter is also required. For self-nominations, a letter of support from a colleague must also be submitted. After registering on the platform, nominees will be notified by email and can then finalize their nomination.
Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programs at ESA, commented.
“It is a pleasure to launch the fifth edition of the EO Excellence Award. This award celebrates the creativity, passion, and scientific excellence of the young European Earth observation community. These researchers are not only expanding our understanding of the planet using European satellite data, but are also shaping the future of environmental action through innovation. We are proud to support and recognize their work.”
With the EO Excellence Award 2026, ESA is creating a platform for the next generation of European Earth observation researchThe prize offers young scientists a valuable opportunity to showcase their projects and actively shape the future of data-based Earth and environmental research.
Detailed information about the program can be found at https://www.eoxcellence.com.
