ESA Exploration Science Workshop 2026 – Early Career Researchers Abstract Submissions
INFORMATION: ESA Exploration Science Workshop 2026
The European Space Agency is pleased to announce a Call for Abstracts for Early Career Researchers to submit abstracts to the ESA Exploration Science Workshop 2026, to be held on 24–26 November 2026 at the headquarters of the Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI) in Rome, Italy.
About the Workshop
The ESA Exploration Science Workshop 2026 will bring together scientists and ESA Member State delegations to showcase the full breadth of exploration science across Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the Moon, and Mars. The 3-day workshop will provide a comprehensive update on the science element of ESA’s Explore2040 Strategy, highlight outcomes and achievements from ESA Exploration Science activities, and formulate recommendations for future research directions.
The Opportunity
ESA recognises the vital role that the next generation of researchers plays in shaping the future of space exploration science. Early Career Researchers are therefore warmly encouraged to submit abstracts on topics relevant to the workshop themes, including, but not limited to, science conducted in or enabled by LEO environments, lunar exploration science, and Mars science.
A maximum of 10 abstracts will be selected. Each selected candidate will be invited to deliver a short oral presentation (3-minute pitch + 2-minute Q&A) and a poster presentation on day 2 of workshop (25 November 2026), their registration fee waived and will receive a €1,000 travel grant to support participation. This represents a unique opportunity to present their work to a multi-disciplinary, international audience and to engage directly with the broader ESA exploration science community.
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to:
- PhD students currently enrolled in a doctoral programme; and
- Early-career researchers who’s PhD conferral occurred after 24 November 2021.
- Please also refer to the “Special Conditions” section for additional information on eligibility criteria.
Astrobiology,
