#MyAriane6 contest winners
In celebration of the inaugural launch of Ariane 6, participants from across Europe and beyond took part in the #MyAriane6 competition, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship in building the paper model of Europe’s latest heavy-lift rocket.
Space enthusiasts of all ages, from more than a dozen countries, took on the challenge of assembling the Ariane 6 paper model using ESA’s printable guide. The judges were thrilled by the impressive entries shared on social media, which demonstrated remarkable technical skills. Although no engineering degree was required and the guide offered step-by-step instructions, the contestants went above and beyond to capture the graceful silhouette of Ariane 6 through precise cutting, folding, and assembly.
To add a personal touch, participants were asked to include a background element representative of their country or a special European location. The resulting entries were truly inspiring, showcasing a wide range of creative ideas. One contestant juxtaposed its Ariane 6 model with a 400-year-old Dutch windmill, while another captured its model ‘flying’ inside a small plane.
The judging panel carefully evaluated each entry based on adherence to the guidelines, originality, construction quality, and overall impact. The first-place award went to Aurèle Taillard from France, whose submission impressed the judges with its clear concept, precise construction, and engaging storytelling.
One entry that particularly impressed the judges featured a scaled-down model of Ariane 6 displayed in a frame alongside ESA’s blueprints of the rocket. This entry, along with eight others, was also selected to receive prize packs featuring ESA-themed gifts and official Ariane 6 merchandise from the ESA Space Shop.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants for their enthusiasm and dedication!
About Ariane 6
Ariane 6 launched from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on 9 July 2024 – restoring Europe’s independent access to space.
Taller and more flexible than its predecessors, with an upgraded main stage, a choice of either two or four powerful boosters and a new restartable upper stage, Ariane 6 will provide Europe with greater efficiency and a wider range of launch services. It can launch any satellite into any orbit, including launching multiple payloads into different orbits on a single flight and satellite constellations.