The Ministry of Digital Governance and AI has unveiled the new National Space Program, HELLAS-SPACE 2.0, marking the largest national investment ever made in Greece's space sector. With a total budget of €350 million, the program is funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility "Greece 2.0" and is implemented in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Hellenic Space Center.
New Satellite Infrastructure and Earth Observation
A central pillar of HELLAS-SPACE 2.0 is the development of advanced Earth observation satellite systems. The program includes:
- Very high-resolution and thermal imaging satellites.
- Geospatial data processing systems for public and private use.
- Early fire detection and flood monitoring services.
- Damage mapping to support civil protection operations.
These technologies are expected to provide critical data for precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, and urban planning, turning space data into everyday tools.
Secure Communications and Space Surveillance
Beyond observation, the program emphasizes communication security. It outlines the development of infrastructure for secure satellite connectivity, which will support security forces and public administration, particularly during natural disasters when terrestrial networks may fail. Additionally, the plan includes space situational awareness systems to track satellites and protect critical telecommunications infrastructure.
Boosting the Domestic Industry
HELLAS-SPACE 2.0 aims to stimulate the Greek space ecosystem. Through initiatives supporting startups, research centers, and universities, the program promotes the development of new technologies and the training of highly specialized personnel. Already, under the cooperation with ESA, projects for Greek CubeSat missions have been commissioned, strengthening the country's position on the European space map.
