SANSA launches national space mascot competition. Picture: SANSA
South Africa’s space programme is about to get a face. The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has launched a nationwide competition inviting high school learners to design the country’s first official space mascot — a symbol intended to inspire young people and give the nation’s growing space sector a recognisable identity at home and abroad.
Open to learners in Grades 8 to 11 at registered public, independent and home schools, the competition calls for original mascot designs accompanied by a short-written explanation.
Entries
Entries must be submitted online by midnight on Monday, 14 September 2026. No prior design training is required, and the winning concept will be professionally developed into SANSA’s official mascot for use at schools, outreach events and public engagements.
Sansa Chief Executive Officer Humbulani Mudau said the initiative is about connecting South Africans to a sector that can feel distant and highly technical.
“A mascot gives people something to hold onto. At home, it puts a face to our space programme and helps ordinary South Africans, especially young people, connect with it.
“Abroad, it becomes a symbol that our country can rally behind — helping position us as a serious, creative and capable player in international space affairs. We want a mascot that says both,” he explained.
Space
South Africa’s involvement in space stretches back more than 70 years, from the Hartebeesthoek Ground Station established in 1961 to today’s satellite manufacturing and cutting‑edge research.
Sansa wants the mascot to celebrate these achievements while reflecting something distinctly South African — whether through language, wildlife, culture or history.
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Winners
Entries will be judged by a panel of scientists, engineers, designers and education specialists.
The winning learner will receive R3,000 in cash, a SANSA merchandise hamper and a certificate signed by the CEO, while their school will be awarded R60,000 in vouchers for equipment or books.
Runners‑up will also receive cash prizes, merchandise hampers and school awards, with a total of R100,000 allocated to support teaching and learning.
Stem
Mudau said the competition is designed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.
“We hope this inspires learners to see themselves as future scientists, engineers and innovators. The mascot is a creative entry point into a sector that is vital for South Africa’s future,” he said.
Learners and schools can enter via Sansa’s official portal at mascot.sansa.org.za or email mascot@sansa.org.za for more information.
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