Deadline Date: June 5, 2026
The Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2026 is an open innovation program designed to support the development of space-based technologies and Earth Observation applications that address environmental, societal, and developmental challenges across Africa.
The program focuses on Earth Observation data applications, remote sensing technologies, climate change monitoring, agriculture, disaster risk reduction, natural resource monitoring, sustainable urban and rural development, healthcare solutions, navigation and positioning systems, and innovative data collection techniques including satellite technologies and in-situ measurement systems.
The Africa Earth Observation Challenge is an annually run open innovation initiative that has been sourcing novel space technologies since 2016. It aims to encourage entrepreneurial activity within the African space sector while increasing awareness of the value and application of Earth Observation technologies among a wider community.
Earth Observation refers to the collection of information about the physical, chemical, and biological systems of the planet using remote-sensing technologies. These technologies are used to monitor and analyze changes in both natural and human-made environments, supporting better decision-making and innovation.
The 2026 edition of the challenge seeks to identify innovative applications of space-based data across multiple thematic areas. Climate change and navigation and positioning are considered cross-cutting themes that apply across all categories, ensuring broad relevance and integration of solutions.
Applicants are also encouraged to include innovative data collection techniques as part of their proposals. This includes upstream technologies such as new satellite systems, onboard data processing units, and advanced in-situ measurement approaches that enhance the quality and usability of Earth Observation data.
The thematic areas for the challenge include climate change, agriculture, disaster risk reduction, natural resource monitoring, sustainable urban and rural development, and healthcare. These areas represent key sectors where Earth Observation technologies can create meaningful impact and support sustainable development outcomes.
The challenge aims to promote innovation-driven solutions that leverage space technologies to address pressing challenges while strengthening the African space ecosystem and encouraging entrepreneurial engagement in Earth Observation applications.
For more information, visit AEOC.
