The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) are delighted to announce the sixth edition of the Space4Youth Competition. This exciting initiative invites students and young professionals to share their innovative ideas on creating more inclusive opportunities for youth in the global space community.
About the Competition
This year’s theme, “Empowering Youth for the Future of Space: Inclusive Opportunities, Skills Development, and Accessible Pathways,” challenges participants to propose solutions for:
- Enhancing access to education, training, internships, and jobs in the space sector, particularly for underrepresented regions and groups.
- Fostering partnerships and programs to inspire and prepare young professionals for careers in space.
- Developing inclusive policies that bridge gaps in accessibility and empower emerging talent.
Submissions should focus on practical and scalable solutions that amplify youth engagement and leadership in the evolving space sector.
Exciting Awards for Top Entries
The five best essay authors will receive:
- A fully sponsored trip to the United States, where they will meet representatives of the U.S. space sector.
- Attendance at the prestigious Adult Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
- Publication of their essays on the UNOOSA “Space for Youth” webpage.
- Potential invitations to other international space events.
Note: Winners must meet visa approval requirements. Travel expenses will be covered by the U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Vienna.
How to Apply
The competition consists of two phases:
- Abstract Submission
- Deadline: 8 December 2024, 23:59 GMT
- Applicants submit an abstract of maximum 100 words and fill in the online application form here by 8 December 2024.
- Essay Submission
- Selected applicants will be invited to submit a 1,000-word essay based on their abstract.
- Essay Deadline: 26 January 2025, 23:59 CET
Eligibility
- Open to individuals aged 18–35 from any UN Member State.
- Priority will be given to participants from developing countries.
- Competition organizers and judges are not eligible to participate.
Timeline
- Abstract Submission Deadline: 8 December 2024
- Abstract Selection Notification: 10 January 2025
- Essay Submission Deadline: 26 January 2025
- Winners Announced: 19 February 2025
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be assessed on:
- Relevance to the theme
- Originality and feasibility of ideas
- Coherence and structure
- Practical impact on youth engagement in the space sector
Context and Importance
Youth engagement in the space industry is vital for addressing global challenges and advancing innovation. However, barriers such as limited opportunities, high education costs, and unequal access hinder many young individuals, particularly in underrepresented regions.
UNOOSA’s Space4Youth initiative aligns with the “Space2030” Agenda, aiming to inspire and empower youth worldwide through inclusive opportunities and initiatives in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Get Involved
Join this global initiative to shape the future of space exploration and win the chance to experience the U.S. space sector firsthand!
For more details, visit the official Space4Youth webpage or contact space4youth@un.org.
