The European Space Agency (ESA), through its youth program ESA Kids, is organizing the “Paxi’s Cosmic Art Competition.” The goal of this competition is to showcase young people’s artwork on the theme of space. Entries can take various forms (drawings, paintings, models, etc.) to encourage young artists to freely express their imagination and creativity. To mark World Space Week, with its theme “Rocket Revolution,” ESA has chosen “Rockets” as the theme for the month of October.
European launchers
Rockets, which enable the launch of artificial satellites, space shuttles, and even astronauts into space, are one of the most important components of space exploration. For its part, the European Space Agency (ESA) developed rockets since many years ago. In 1979, the first Ariane rocket, Ariane 1, was launched. Since then, European rockets have continued to evolve, with launch vehicles such as Ariane 6 and Vega-C now carrying out numerous missions in space.
Rockets pave the way for incredible space adventures. When a rocket takes off, its engines roar. They generate enormous thrust that propels the rocket into the sky and helps it overcome Earth’s gravitational pull. Whether it’s to transport astronauts to the International Space Station or to send a space probe to the far reaches of the Solar System, what would your dream rocket look like? Send us your best rocket designs! ESA will select the contest winners, whose works will be displayed in the “Paxi Space Gallery” and who will receive a special prize!
How can I participate?
To participate in the October 2026 contest, your entries must be submitted to ESA by October 31, 2026. You can submit them directly on the contest page by clicking this link, or you can mail them to the following address: ESA Education, ESTEC, Keplerlaan 1, PO Box 299 NL-2200 AG Noordwijk, The Netherlands.
Participants must be under 12 years old. Please also note that entries sent by mail will not be returned, and you will not receive a confirmation of receipt. Selected participants will be contacted by ESA.
France recognised for its eclipses
In August, to mark the total eclipse on August 12, 2026, which darkened part of Europe, the ESA chose “Eclipses” as its theme. Many children from around the world took part in the contest. Among all the drawings received, ESA selected Manoé’s drawing. Congratulations on this beautiful drawing, and, as Paxi, ESA’s mascot, would say, “What incredible imagination!”
Good luck to everyone! We can’t wait to see your creations!
