The sixth edition of the EO Excellence Award, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA), is now open. The Award recognises early-career researchers whose innovative use of Earth observation data is advancing our understanding of the planet and helping to address climate change, environmental challenges and societal needs.

This year, two grants of up to €15,000 each will be awarded: one to a researcher based in an ESA Member State and one to a researcher from a country outside Europe. Applicants should be within five years of their highest degree (MSc or PhD) and no more than ten years from their first degree, and are invited to link their work to one or more themes of ESA’s Earth Observation Science Strategy.

The ESSC welcomes the continuation of the Award, having contributed to previous editions. As in past years, the ESSC’s Earth Sciences Panel will be part of the evaluation committee, contributing its scientific expertise to the selection of the winners.

Self-nominations are open, and close on 22 January 2027 at 23:59 UTC. Evaluation will take place between January and March 2027, with winners announced in April 2027.

Full details, eligibility criteria and the terms and conditions are available at www.eoxcellence.com.