While four astronauts from the Artemis II mission orbit the Moon and break human distance records from Earth, registrations for the 2026 edition of the OBA (Brazilian Astronomy and Astronautics Olympiad) and Obafog (Brazilian Rocket Olympics) were opened.
The competitions, aimed at high school students from public and private schools, are free. Schools must register classes by May 1st. The OBA theoretical test along with the deadline for Obafog launches occurs on May 15th.
The coordinator of OBA and Obafog, professor João Batista Garcia Canalle, summarizes the practical guidelines that teachers and schools need to know before confirming participation.
According to him, registration is unique for both competitions, the test is in person in schools with ten questions — seven in astronomy and three in astronautics — and the prizes in the first phase already include students according to educational levels.
Canalle also highlights that there are seven rocket models, each with specific regulations, and that Obafog’s practical format allows schools to involve students in . “We want students to feel that classes come to the space, and that they can start in the classroom.”
How the Olympics work:
- OBA: face-to-face test administered in schools, with ten multiple-choice questions (seven astronomy, three astronautics). Levels: 1 (1st to 3rd grade of elementary school), 2 (4th and 5th grade EF), 3 (6th to 9th grade EF) and 4 (high school). The second phase serves to select representatives in international competitions when applicable.
- Obafog: practical modality in which teams build and launch rockets. There are seven models ranging from simple propulsions (compressed air, water, vinegar–bicarbonate reaction) to rockets with solid propulsion, multi-stages, parachute recovery and on-board electronics for altitude measurement. The model 7 is launched almost vertically, unlike the previous ones.
Selection and practical journeys
The three best teams from each school (by level) are invited to the Rocket Journeys, in Barra do Piraí (RJ), where they participate in workshops, lectures and practical launches. Canalle emphasizes that these activities consolidate scientific learning and strengthen teamwork.
In 2025, OBA brought together more than 1.5 million participants and Obafog more than 330 thousand. Canalle states that the broad award has a pedagogical objective: to encourage participation and maintain student motivation.
Why 2026 is special
This year is particularly symbolic for astronomy and astronautics: it is in lunar orbit during this period, breaking distance records and carrying out tests that mark the human return to the vicinity of the Moon.
Canalle anticipates that topics related to the first lunar landing, the Artemis missions and the prospects for future landings may appear in the tests and practical activities, bringing theories seen in class closer to real achievements in space.
OBA and Obafog registrations
- Class registration deadline: until May 1st at
- Schools: public and private
- Valor: free
- OBA test and deadline for Obafog launches: May 15
- Registration and regulations: official website of
