The 2026 Scientific Excellence Prize was awarded to the SVOM team by the French Aeronautical and Astronautical Association (3AF).
The 2026 edition rewards the research work and technological developments carried out as part of the Franco-Chinese space mission SVOM (Space-based multi-band astronomical Variable Objects Monitor).
The SVOM mission was launched on June 22, 2024 from the Xichang base, China. Dedicated to the observation of gamma-ray bursts and transient astronomical phenomena in the Universe, it combines technical innovations with targeted scientific objectives.
The APC laboratory is directly involved through the ECLAIRs instrument, a coded mask telescope operating in the X-ray domain. It ensures the initial detection and first localization of gamma-ray bursts which triggers the autonomous pivoting of the satellite and the sending of an alert to the ground-based telescopes.
This award highlights the contribution of researchers, engineers and technicians from French teams and their international partners, committed to the success of this program.