International travel, high-value prizes and career-shaping internships – three excellent reasons to take part in the Odysseus space science contest. Registration for the next cycle (covering the 2016-2017 academic year) has just opened. Aimed at space enthusiasts aged 7 to 22, the contest provides a launchpad for young people to explore new horizons.
Brussels, Belgium – 31 August 2016
Odysseus challenges European youth to push the boundaries of their knowledge by discovering answers to fundamental questions on topics ranging from satellites and space probes to astrobiology and interplanetary travel. The ultimate goal to of the contest is to inspire young Europeans to get involved in space science and technology.
Wanted: young Europeans with a spirit of discovery and an interest in space science
Organized in multiple rounds (national, regional and international) the competition is open to participants from primary schools, secondary schools and universities. Teachers and professors are encouraged to get involved by organizing teams; access to professional mentoring is available upon request. Entries can be submitted in any of the EU’s 24 official languages.
Three academic levels are targeted, with separate competitions for:
- Skywalkers - ages 7 to 13 (primary schools)
- Pioneers - ages 14 to 19 (secondary schools)
- Explorers - ages 17 to 22 (universities)
Register online now. Entries (complete projects) must be received by March 31, 2017.
Participants will compete first at national level with submissions addressing one of the contest’s broadly defined topics. Experienced judges will evaluate submissions on the basis of scientific knowledge, practical implementation, team work and creativity. Winners competing in regional and international finals (complete with activity programme) will enjoy expenses-paid travel and accommodation. Prizes include iPads, computerized telescopes, travel opportunities, internships at space agencies or aerospace companies and trips to the European spaceport in French Guiana (South America).
Detailed information – including a media kit and detailed instructions on how to submit an entry online – is available at www.odysseus-contest.eu.
Background
The contest is organized by Odysseus II, a three-year project funded through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. The project consortium consists of 14 partners and four supporting organizations from 11 European countries.
Contact
Terry Martin
Teltower Damm 283, 14167 Berlin, Germany
phone: +49/ (0) 30 857 41404
