Call for proposals to host 2015 European CanSat launch campaign

The Cansat student competition will take place in Spring 2015. ESA is seeking applications from any organisations or companies that are interested in hosting the annual contest under ESA funding.

This opportunity is open to European organisations from ESA Member States*.

The applicants must be familiar with launching small payloads to altitudes of at least several kilometres. Previous experience with launching or developing CanSats would be an advantage.

The applicants must prove that they are able to provide accommodation, meals and local transport for approximately 100 people, as well as test facilities and the capability of launching the payloads, during a week-long event.

Deadline for entries is 24 August 2014.

How to apply

Organisations intending to apply should download the application form and e-mail the completed document to cansat@esa.int before the deadline.

What is a CanSat?

A CanSat is a simulated satellite which has the volume and shape of a soft drink can. Students are challenged to fit all of the major subsystems found in a satellite, such as power and communications, into the tiny can.

CanSats are mainly launched from rockets, balloons or planes but new ideas are welcomed.  After release at an altitude of about at least 1 km, the CanSat has to perform a scientific / technological mission and return safely to the ground.

The European CanSat competition is open to full time students (aged 14+) who are enrolled at a secondary school in an ESA Member State. The teams are assisted by a teacher or tutor.

The first European CanSat competition was held in August 2010. Since then, dozens of teachers and hundreds of high school students from ESA Member States have enjoyed the challenge of building and flying their mini payloads.