Greece Launches "HELLAS-SPACE 2.0" National Space Program with 350 Million Euro Budget

Greece is embarking on a new era in its space policy with the "HELLAS-SPACE 2.0" national program, backed by a 350 million euro budget funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund "Greece 2.0" and developed in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA).

This program serves as the cornerstone of the new National Space Strategy, designed to bolster Greece's space capabilities, establish advanced infrastructure, and offer innovative tools for both public services and the private sector. It focuses on creating an integrated ecosystem encompassing satellite infrastructure, secure data services, research, innovation, and strengthening the domestic space industry. A key objective is also to cultivate highly specialized human capital, fostering new expertise and boosting the competitiveness of the Greek economy in the rapidly expanding space sector.

The initiative involves a broad spectrum of actions, including the development of very high-resolution satellites to provide sophisticated geospatial data for public services, scientific research, and business applications. Additionally, thermal imaging satellites will be developed for civil protection, natural disaster prevention and response, environmental monitoring, and enhancing national security. The program also emphasizes secure satellite connectivity and positioning services to fortify critical public and private infrastructure, particularly in sectors like transportation, telecommunications, and emergency services.

Furthermore, "HELLAS-SPACE 2.0" includes systems for space surveillance and radio frequency emission detection, thereby improving the country's operational capabilities and its ability to monitor space-related activities. A dedicated space innovation and testing program is also planned to support the development of new technologies, products, and applications by research institutions, universities, and Greek high-tech companies. The program also aims to create secure data and service infrastructures accessible to both public and private sectors, facilitating the processing and utilization of crucial information.