The European Space Agency (ESA), through its youth program ESA Kids, is organising the ‘Paxi’s Cosmic Art Competition’. This competition aims to showcase children’s artwork on the theme of space. Entries may take various forms (drawings, paintings, models, etc.) to give free rein to the imagination and creativity of young artists. To celebrate the total solar eclipse taking place on 12 August 2026, ESA has chosen ‘Eclipses’ as the theme for the month of August.
An extraordinary total eclipse
On 12 August 2026, a rarely seen total solar eclipse will be visible from some parts of Europe, notably northern Spain and a very small part of Portugal. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun and completely blocks its light for a few minutes, giving the impression that day briefly turns into night! A total solar eclipse occurs when the Sun, the Moon and the Earth are perfectly aligned, and the Moon completely covers the Sun. This is only possible because the Moon is about 400 times smaller than the Sun, but is about 400 times closer to the Earth.
In France, the eclipse will only be partial. Nevertheless, the Moon will still obscure a significant portion of the Sun. Indeed, 92.2% of the Sun will be obscured in Paris, 97.9% in Toulouse, and as much as 99.5% in Bayonne. Although partial, this eclipse will therefore remain very impressive from France. Please note: you must never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection. You can enjoy this event safely by using certified eclipse glasses, a special solar filter for a camera or telescope, or even by making your own pinhole projector.
What better way to celebrate this exceptional eclipse than by creating your own piece of art on the theme of the eclipse? Whether it’s the coolest pinhole projector, a stunning model of an eclipse, a painting, a drawing or something completely unique… let your imagination run wild! ESA will select the winners of the competition, whose works will be exhibited in the ‘Paxi Space Gallery’ and who will receive a special prize!
How can I take part?
To take part in the August competition, your entries must be sent to ESA by 31 August 2026. You can submit them directly via the competition page by clicking on this link, or you can send them by post to the following address: ESA Education, ESTEC, Keplerlaan 1, PO Box 299 NL-2200 AG Noordwijk, The Netherlands.
Participants must be under 12 years of age. Please also note that entries sent by post will not be returned and that you will not receive an acknowledgement of receipt. The children selected will be contacted by the ESA.
Good luck to you all! We can’t wait to see your creations!
