Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, Dimitris Papastergiou, presented the opportunities arising for Greece’s space ecosystem as Adrian Golemis becomes the first Greek to participate in the official European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut training program.

For the first time in its history, Greece is officially represented in an ESA astronaut training program. Adrian Golemis will soon begin his training at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne, Germany. This development marks a major milestone in strengthening Greece’s presence in space research and technology, opening new opportunities for the country’s participation in international space missions. The training, scheduled to start in April 2026, is a fundamental prerequisite for future participation in space missions and includes an intensive program of theoretical instruction and practical exercises.

Minister Papastergiou stated: "The training of the first Greek astronaut is not only a personal achievement for Adrian; it is a powerful symbol of a new era for our country in space. It is living proof that Greece can design, participate, and play a leading role in a field that until recently seemed distant. I cannot think of a better proof than the fact that a Greek citizen will now have the opportunity to travel to space. Our national presence in space is not fragmented; it is part of a cohesive strategy that is already underway: from increasing our participation in ESA research programs to the National Microsatellite Program, whose first launches are already a reality. Six micro- and nanosatellites are currently in orbit, while in the coming days, weather permitting, six more Greek nanosatellites are expected to be launched. In April, we continue with thermal microsatellites, further expanding our operational capabilities in space. In this way, we are creating a comprehensive ecosystem of knowledge, innovation, and production".

Adrian Golemis commented: "It is a great joy for me that, through the systematic work of the Hellenic Space Center and the General Secretariat of Telecommunications and Post, my success in ESA’s most recent astronaut selection has been transformed from a personal achievement into a national opportunity. It is an honor to help Greece be represented for the first time in the field of astronauts. Traveling to space has been a childhood dream. I am thrilled that we are moving forward with the right framework for our country: my integration into ESA’s astronaut training program expands the window for Greek companies, universities, and research institutions to participate in the agency’s collaborative programs, complementing the National Microsatellite Program that is already underway. Having worked in this field for eight years, I have witnessed the significant economic, scientific, geopolitical, and educational benefits that arise. I am particularly pleased that Greece is now moving in this direction and extending its activity in human and robotic space exploration. It is important to recognize that our country has a mature ecosystem capable of contributing to and benefiting from the European framework. Astronaut training also prepares us for the possibility of Greek participation, in collaboration with Europe and the U.S., in missions to the International Space Station (ISS), advancing domestic space research and technology for future applications that improve life on Earth. I would like to sincerely thank my family for their support, as well as every Greek citizen who has worked for our country’s entry into the astronaut program."

Brief Biography of Adrian Golemis

Adrian Golemis was born and raised in Larissa, studied medicine at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and completed an interdisciplinary Master’s in Space Sciences at the International Space University (ISU) in France.

He has lived and worked for one year in complete isolation with a small crew at the Concordia Station in Antarctica, conducting European experiments studying changes in human physiology and psychology under extreme living conditions similar to those in space. His next posting was at the French Institute of Space Medicine and Physiology (MEDES), where he worked on clinical studies simulating the challenges faced by the human body in space, aimed at improving understanding and care on Earth.

Since 2018, he has contributed to the medical support of ESA astronauts, currently serving as Lead Flight Surgeon. He is also a research collaborator at the Hellenic Space Center (ELKED).

In 2022, Golemis ranked first among 25 selected candidates out of 22,500 applicants in ESA’s astronaut selection process, becoming the first Greek citizen to complete all selection stages, enabling Greece to be represented in a research mission in space for the first time. Subsequently, he was elected a member of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA).

Golemis also promotes science through public presentations and interviews, including many in schools.

Source: Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence

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DAEDALUS, the computing core of the AI Factory Pharos, is the new supercomputer expected to transform Greece’s research and innovation landscape. It is now entering the final phase of its implementation: the entire system has already been assembled at HPE’s factory in the Czech Republic and is undergoing full technical inspection before being transferred to its final installation site at the Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) (cover photo: Preparation of the Lavrion facilities).

The first photographs of the new DAEDALUS supercomputer have already been released, generating waves of anticipation among those awaiting the start of its operation at the Lavrion facilities. As shown in the photographic material, the facilities are currently being prepared to host it later this summer. This is a highly complex construction consisting of specialized cabinets with direct liquid cooling and high power specifications, integrating more than 2,000 powerful NVIDIA Grace Hopper (GH200) superchips, specifically designed for large-scale artificial intelligence applications. At HPE’s laboratories, extensive operational testing of the individual units and their interaction as a unified system is currently underway, ensuring that before its transfer and installation in Lavrion, its stability and performance under real workload conditions have been fully validated.

Based on measurements already carried out, DAEDALUS is expected to reach a computing power exceeding 89 quadrillion arithmetic operations per second (89 × 10¹⁵ FLOPS in double precision). Compared to home computers and typical professional systems, this corresponds to performance levels millions of times faster, enabling it to solve computational problems in hours or days that would require weeks or months on conventional machines. The installation of DAEDALUS in Greece marks the first time such a powerful system is hosted in the country and is expected to position the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and Lavrion among Europe’s leading computational infrastructures, serving as a regional hub in Southeastern Europe.

The Greek Artificial Intelligence “Factory” PHAROS is becoming a regional AI hub in Southeastern Europe, as it will be connected with four AI Factory Antennas in Cyprus, Malta, North Macedonia, and Serbia (Source: www.ekt.gr/en )

Pharos, the Greek AI Factory

The Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, speaking to the Athens–Macedonian News Agency, stressed that “DAEDALUS is not just another technical project. It is a strategic investment of national importance that places our country at the core of Europe’s computing and technological power. At a time when Artificial Intelligence and data determine economic and geopolitical influence, Greece cannot remain merely a consumer of technology. DAEDALUS gives us the ability to produce knowledge, innovation, and high value-added applications here, in our own country”.

The Minister of Digital Governance continued: “As the computing core of the AI Factory Pharos, it will provide startups, universities, and public institutions with access to advanced infrastructure that until now was the privilege of only a few countries. From healthcare and sustainable development to the Greek language and culture, we are creating the conditions for Greece to shape developments — not merely follow them. With DAEDALUS, we are building a new pillar of digital sovereignty. We are putting into practice our choice for an economy of knowledge, technology, and extroversion, with a meaningful and active role in the European Artificial Intelligence ecosystem.”

The organization and operation of the system are not limited to the “machine” itself. It constitutes an integrated infrastructure in which the supercomputer will serve as the core of Pharos, an AI Factory that will provide the service layer: access rules, support, tools, data management, and human expertise. Pharos aims to make supercomputing power accessible to research centers, universities, startups, and the public sector by offering services and technical assistance so users can leverage high-performance computing safely, compliantly, and efficiently. Technical matters such as sensitive data management, anonymization, preparation of AI-ready datasets, and the implementation of proper access policies will be handled through the Pharos service ecosystem, reducing barriers for businesses and researchers.

The practical significance of the infrastructure is immediate and multi-layered. For Greek startups and SMEs, DAEDALUS and Pharos mean access to computing power and technical support that until now were available only through costly commercial cloud services or with significant delays when accessing international centers. This can reduce development costs and accelerate AI model training and optimization cycles, enabling a faster transition from proof-of-concept to functional prototypes and pilot applications in sectors such as healthcare, public services, energy, and the environment. Universities and research institutions gain access to infrastructure for complex simulations and large-scale experiments, reducing the need to send workloads to foreign platforms and strengthening opportunities for collaboration with industry.

In the healthcare sector, for example, a Greek startup will be able to rapidly train large models that prioritize images from emergency cases—such as X-rays or CT scans—and integrate anonymization and secure data management tools in order to test and validate clinical applications much faster than has been practically feasible until now. In the public sector, access to computing power at a national scale opens up possibilities for improved data analysis, faster crisis response, optimization of energy grids, and applications for environmental protection and natural resource management.

PHAROS AI Factory, Greece’s national ecosystem for accelerating Artificial Intelligence innovation, participated in Athens Digital Health Week 2026, held on 16-20 February 2026 in Athens

The installation and full operation process follows a specific timeline: DAEDALUS will be installed in Lavrion in the summer of 2026, while full operation and the provision of services to the country’s innovation ecosystem through Pharos are expected in the autumn of 2026. The project is being implemented under the auspices of the National Infrastructures for Research and Technology Network (EDYTE S.A. – GRNET), with scientific and administrative oversight from leading figures in the field, including distinguished professors and representatives in European programs such as EuroHPC, as well as from the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). The close collaboration among academic, technical, and administrative bodies, along with the involvement of EU funding instruments and the Greek public administration, aims to ensure that the investment will generate multiplier benefits for the economy and research.

(Source: www.amna.gr : “DAEDALUS – “Building” the Heart of Pharos: From Assembly to Installation in Summer 2026”, Photos: Ministry of Digital Governance)

DAEDALUS supercomputer of GRNET at the Lavrion Technological Cultural Park of the NTUA (animation)

Read also:

Daedalus Supercomputer to elevate Greek research to new heights

Greece’s “Pharos”: A landmark proposal for Europe’s AI Factory Initiative and for the creation of a Greek Large Language Model

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A Greek producer has, for the first time, received the prestigious “World’s Best of the Best” distinction, a rare global honor in the field of agriculture. Sakellaropoulos Organic Olive Groves were nominated by previous award recipients and, following a rigorous international evaluation process, were honored in the Agriculture category with the rare “World’s Best of the Best” title.

The award ceremony took place at the Quirinale Hotel in Rome, where George Sakellaropoulos stated:

“Today, the efforts of Sakellaropoulos Organic Farms over the past 35 years are being rewarded with this rare distinction. This is a major and deeply meaningful moment in our journey — a lifetime award — for which I express my sincere gratitude.

Our work began with a vision to develop and promote exclusively renewable, sustainable, and green practices, based on certified organic cultivation. This approach has led to the creation of natural olive products with scientifically proven health-protective properties, supported by clinical studies and research conducted at leading institutions and universities worldwide.

With this unique and honorary award, you are honoring not only our work, but also my country, Greece, my homeland — the historic city of Sparta — and the entire Greek olive and agricultural sector.”

About the Awards

The World’s Best of the Best distinction is awarded by the organizing committee of the PRO PR GLOBE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS, which utilizes its global networks to assemble one of the largest, most experienced, and most diverse international judging panels worldwide. The distinction serves as a strong affirmation of excellence across fields, including science, academia, culture, museums, cultural heritage, music, healthcare, green industry, agriculture, and winemaking.

The awards are evaluated by 76 international judges, who conduct a 90-day in-depth assessment of nominated organizations, companies, groups, and individuals. The evaluation examines actions, values, sustainability practices, and global impact.

Judges represent all continents and come from countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Italy, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Sweden, Denmark, India, South Africa, and many others.

The goal of the judging process is to identify initiatives that promote sustainability, environmental responsibility, innovation, science, and positive societal impact, while contributing meaningfully to global change.

Ceremony and Background

The PRO PR GLOBE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2026 were presented on January 28, 2026, during a special ceremony in Rome, Italy, held within the framework of the PR Roman Forum, an international conference focused on green sustainability and communication. The awards are organized by Apriori World, with the support of the World Innovation and Change Management Institute (Geneva, Switzerland).

A distinctive feature of the awards is the nomination process: candidates are proposed exclusively by previous award winners and by members and senior executives of the world’s five leading communication organizations — PRCA, IPRA, CIPR, ICCO, and WCFA.

Established in 2012, the PRO PR GLOBE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS recognize organizations and individuals worldwide who serve as positive role models through innovation, excellence, social responsibility, sustainability advocacy, education, and global impact.

Among this year’s distinguished awardees are the British Museum (London), the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Alma Mater Europaea University (Slovenia), and the Museo Nacional del Prado (Spain).

Source: https://www.bioarmonia.gr/, https://www.amna.gr/en

Read more on Greek News Agenda:

Greek olive oil through time: tradition, innovation, and future prospects

Taste the unique “Greek breakfast”

University of Athens Online Courses on Mediterranean Diet

It’s a Fact: Greek Olive Oil is an Art

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Over the past few years, innovation has been on the rise in Thessaloniki and northern Greece in general. The city's strategic location and the presence of a number of universities and thriving businesses reinforce Thessaloniki's comparative advantages in its goal to become a pillar of development and innovation in Southeast Europe. A large innovation and technology center, named Thess INTEC (Thessaloniki Innovation & Technology Center), currently under development, aims to become the focal point for the innovation activities of academic and research institutions, start-up clusters, and corporate research and development departments.

This 4th generation Science and Technology Park will offer the opportunity for private and public sector research and development to come together and collaborate in a specially designed 756,968 m² space in the Thessaloniki airport area, with a budget of over €70 million. The park will host 100 to 150 companies and research centers and will employ around 7,000 people. Thess INTEC is set to become one of Europe's largest innovation and technology centers, with the aim of attracting investment from Greek and foreign companies over the next ten years.

A “bottom-up” approach

It should be noted that a significant number of leading Greek companies and research institutes, as well as international technology parks in Europe and America, have already signed written agreements with each other to cooperate on setting up operations at the Center. This is why the Thess INTEC project has a “bottom-up” approach, whereby the needs arising from cooperation and coexistence between research teams and companies have determined the manner, size, and even the materials with which the Center’s shared infrastructure and building complexes should be developed.

Thess INTEC is dedicated to an entire ecosystem active in fields such as artificial intelligence, advanced materials, clean energy, nanotechnology, supply chain, and transportation and mobility, with the aim of creating new products and services of international scope.

Large-scale technology parks and innovation zones are the most effective way to link research to production and, at the same time, strengthen emerging technology companies, as they bring start-ups and spin-offs into contact with established companies based in the center. This is why one of Thess INTEC's main activities will be to provide support services and facilities for start-ups from Greece and abroad. It should be noted that 35% of Greek spin-offs operate in Thessaloniki.

As part of the first phase of Thess INTEC's development, there are plans to construct buildings with a total surface area of 10,500 m², of which 5,500 m² will be used for offices and the remaining 5,000 m² for specialized laboratories. These premises will house the park's administration, the start-up incubator, and the research teams working on flagship megaprojects, which will focus on strategic technological and industrial sectors with high potential.

According to the feasibility and viability study carried out in collaboration with the International Association of Science Parks (IASP), 70 existing innovative companies have signed cooperation agreements with 17 university/research laboratories as part of the Center's six megaprojects, with a view to setting up and collaborating on a common goal at the Thess INTEC premises.

The six megaprojects are the following:

• MP1 Advanced materials and industrial production processes

• MP2 Applications of flexible organic materials derived from nanotechnology

• MP3 Artificial intelligence and simulation applications

• MP4 Innovative clean energy solutions

• MP5 Skills development for the integration of innovative solutions in businesses and the supply chain

• MP6 Future mobility technologies and applications

A place for meeting, art, and culture At the same time, the park's development company will lease land on a long-term basis (from 20 to 50 years) to companies and organizations wishing to relocate, with the possibility of building private facilities in accordance with Thess INTEC's architectural rules. In addition to high-tech and innovation facilities, office space will be made available to service companies (ICT, consulting, accounting, advertising, etc.), while a conference and exhibition center, a hotel complex, and a theme park will be created through concession contracts. The coastal area will host leisure and catering facilities, such as restaurants, cafes, shops, and event spaces.

Thess INTEC will serve as a meeting point for the Greek innovation ecosystem, contributing decisively to the transformation of the country's production model. At the same time, it will be a landmark for northern Greece and Thessaloniki. With 340,000 m² of open green spaces, sports and leisure facilities, distinctive landscape architecture and buildings, an inextricable link with the sea, and an intense and ongoing “dialogue” with the local community, it will undoubtedly become a place for meeting, art, and culture.

58% of Thess INTEC AE is owned by private sector organizations and companies, including the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises, the Greek Exporters Association, and Greek companies. The remaining 42% of the capital is held by public sector organizations, including the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the University of Macedonia, the International Hellenic University, the Center for Research and Technology, Hellas (CERTH), the Alexander Innovation Zone, and the Municipality of Thermaikos.

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Big technology investments to improve Greece’s innovation and digital footprint; A cooperation between the University of Piraeus and CERTH

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The APSIM project (Applications of Situated Simulations) aims to promote the Greek culture using innovative technologies, assisting both the general public and the new generations to get familiar and love the archaeological wealth of Greece. Using an Augmented Reality (AR) application, visitors of archaeological sites and museums will have the opportunity to enjoy a completely different tour-experience in the archaeological sites, resembling one of a video gaming!

Through the Augmented Reality application CirculAR, cultural heritage sites are transformed into immersive, interactive experiences that connect the past with the present. By combining scientifically documented content with advanced 3D modeling, spatial mapping, and gamification techniques, CirculAR enables users to explore monuments in their original form directly within their physical environment. Using a smartphone or tablet, visitors can visualize reconstructions, navigate around monuments, and engage with historical narratives in a dynamic and intuitive way. The appliation is available free of charge for Android devices via the Google Play Store and for iOS via the App Store.

The creation of the CirculAR application was the result of multifaceted collaboration among scientists from different fields: archaeologists, historians, computer engineers, interface designers, educators, and specialists in cultural policy development. It was developed within the framework of the European APSIM project, coordinated by the I-SENSE research team of the Institute of Communication and Computer Systems (ICCS) of the National Technical University of Athens (NTU), with the participation of the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades, the Department of History and Archaeology of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (University Excavation of Dion), the Epigraphic Museum of Athens, and the companies “GEOANALYSIS S.A.” and “Comic IKE.” The project is implemented under the “Research–Create–Innovate” action of the General Secretariat for Research and Technology, co-funded by the European Union.

The island of Delos- sacred in antiquity serving for millennia as a cultural, economic, and religious center - comes to life once again with the help of the innovative Augmented Reality application CirculAR. Using a simple smartphone or tablet, users of the application can experience an augmented reality journey: they can bring the monuments of Delos to life, view them in three dimensions, rotate them, walk around them, and enjoy a completely new, immersive visiting experience. The Temple of Apollo, the Stoa and the House of the Naxians, the Propylaea, the Terrace of the Lions—all those monuments that today are discernible only through their architectural remains—are revived through augmented reality and the use of scientifically documented content.

By using the camera, sensors embedded in mobile phones, and spatial mapping and positioning algorithms, the application “reads” the landscape and digitally places monuments or traces of the past exactly where they once stood. “The user participates, learns, and forms an emotional connection with the monument, transforming historical memory into a personal experience. And this is precisely the goal—so that we can creatively reconnect with the past,” notes researcher Dr. Tina Katika, Head of the XR Department at I-SENSE. (Source: apsim-project.eu,  amna.gr)

APSIM’s Pilot Demonstrations in Delos Island

According to Dr. Angelos Amditis, project coordinator and Director of Research and Development at ICCS/NTUA, speaking to the Athens–Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), “We are effectively bridging today’s imagination with life in the past. Through the application, you don’t simply see stones or foundations—you see stories, you see architecture, you see human activities. As a result, the application becomes a means of interpretation and understanding, as well as an educational tool grounded in scientific accuracy, essentially transforming the ordinary citizen from a passive observer into an active explorer. In this way, every visit becomes a process of discovery, navigation, knowledge gathering, interaction, and connection”. “The greatest value of the application is that it functions as a bridge across time, carrying the past into the present and the present into the future. In this way, it helps us preserve not only the material but also the intangible dimension of History—creating knowledge and experience, and forging a meaningful relationship between people and place.” (Source: amna.gr)

The application is not limited to Delos. Through the same technology, users can also explore other monuments across Greece. The aim is to incorporate additional monuments into the application in the future.

The Episcopal Basilica of Dion in Pieria.  The ancient Dion, in the region of Pieria, was a sacred site of the Macedonian kingdom. The Roman colony of Dion flourished during the imperial period, particularly in late antiquity. Dion became an episcopal see, which reinforced its importance as an urban centre for the wider region. Near the centre of the ancient city and at a short distance from the Forum, the so-called Episcopal Basilica was built in the 5^th century CE, with at least two successive building phases.

The Philo’s Arsenal (Skeuotheke of Philon), located in the port of Zea (Piraeus), is a significant building preserving the technological memory of ancient warships. In 347 BC, the Athenians decided to construct a building in Piraeus to store the equipment of the military fleet—such as sails, ropes, and tents—during the winter months. The rectangular building, 130 meters long and 18 meters wide, called the Skeuotheke, was designed by the architects Philo and Euthydomos. Ancient writers considered the building the most eminent among the structures of ancient Greek architecture. Its virtual reconstruction was based on a surviving marble inscription, now exhibited at the Epigraphic Museum of Athens, which has been preserved in its entirety.

I.A.

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Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (AIA) was established in 1996, under the form of a société anonyme operating according to the rules of the private economy, as a public-private partnership with a concession agreement – a pioneer step for Greece.

It is the largest airport in Greece and one of the largest and most state-of-the-art airports in Europe. It is one of the most important transport hubs in Southeast Europe and the main gateway to Greece.

In 2024, passenger traffic reached 29,725,613 people, while in the first 11 months of 2025 it reached 31,000,068 million passengers, an increase of 6.6% compared to 2024. Also, there were 250,006 flights in 2024, while in the first 11 months of 2025, there were 264,113, which is a 5.6% increase.

In 2016, AIA became the first airport in Greece to achieve carbon neutrality, while in December 2019, it announced through its initiative "ROUTE 2025" its official commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2025.

During his visit to the airport on December 12, on the occasion of the AIA event for "ROUTE 2025," EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, stated that AIA is the first airport in Greece with a zero carbon footprint and -thanks to the installation of one of the largest photovoltaic power stations in Europe- it now produces on its own all of the energy that it uses – something that seemed impossible just a few years back.

It should be pointed out that the Athens Airport’s achievement of a net zero footprint comes 25 years before the deadline set under the European Green Deal, for EU to become the first climate-neutral continent, meaning net zero greenhouse gas emissions.

According to data presented at the event for "ROUTE 2025" by AIA CEO Yannis Paraschis, CO₂ emissions have been reduced from 65,000 tons in 2005 to 29,000 tons today, while passenger traffic has more than doubled, and this was achieved without carbon offsets.

AIA's strategy was based on three key pillars: Full electrification (with the creation of a new high-power charger network, replacing existent vehicles with electric ones, and phasing out conventional fuels in the airport's daily operations), energy self-sufficiency thanks to photovoltaics, and the energy upgrade of buildings with the goal of completely eliminating natural gas.

The member states that invest in decarbonization now will be the ones that produce the technology of the future. Today, Athens Airport is showing us the way.

Sources: Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund, AMNA, AIA official website

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Five Greek satellites were launched on November 28, and are now in orbit around the Earth as part of the "National Micro-Satellite Program." These are two operational micro-satellites built by the private satellite company ICEYE, as well as three experimental and research microsatellites for technological demonstration, which will test new space technologies developed in Greece with the aim of strengthening the domestic industry. After being integrated via Exolaunch into SpaceX's Falcon 9 on the Transporter-15 rideshare, the satellites were launched on November 28 at 9:00 p.m. (GMT+2) from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This is a very important success that further strengthens the country's position in the modern technological and space ecosystem.

More specifically, the Greek part of the mission consisted of:

• Two operational Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, named ICEYE SAR-1 and SAR-2, which will provide Earth observation data day and night, under any weather conditions. This data will support civil protection, environmental monitoring, and national security activities.

• Two experimental research microsatellites named PHASMA-1 and PHASMA-2 (LAMAR & DIRAC), developed by the Libre Space Foundation, with the aim of demonstrating secure satellite connectivity and spectrum monitoring technologies from space.

• An experimental research microsatellite developed by PRISMA Electronics called MICE-1, which will focus on applications for secure connectivity and the Internet of Things (IoT), with uses predominantly in shipping.

With these five satellites, Greece is strengthening its potential in Earth Observation and Secure Communications services. It should be noted that the micro-satellite constellation developed under the "National Micro-Satellite Program" will provide important data for policy planning and decision-making in critical areas such as mapping, navigation, precision agriculture, spatial planning, and disaster management.

It is worth noting that the "National Small Satellite Program," implemented by the Ministry of Digital Governance with the support of the European Space Agency (ESA) and funded by the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility, is proceeding according to the initial plan.

Through the Micro-Satellite Program, Greece will gain full access to the existing commercial satellite networks of ICEYE, OroraTech, and Open Cosmos, ensuring more frequent and up-to-date data for the Greek territory.

Commenting on the launch, Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, stated: "Greece's presence in space is now a reality. The launch of five Greek satellites is a pivotal development for the country and further proof that we are consistently implementing the ‘National Small Satellite Program’ by utilizing the resources of the Recovery Facility. This is not just a technological investment. It is an investment in the country's future and its path to development, in strengthening the national space ecosystem, and in creating employment opportunities with strong prospects. For the first time, we are acquiring our own data from space and, with them, new possibilities for policy-making, product development, and decision-making in critical areas: from security and civil protection to environmental monitoring and sustainable development. Greece is establishing itself as a country that does not merely keep up with developments, but embraces them, shapes them, and transforms them into opportunities for all."

Secretary General of Telecommunications & Post at the Ministry of Digital Governance, Konstantinos Karantzalos, said that the successful launch was the result of conscious investment in Greek human resources, domestic technological capabilities, and Greek industry, adding: "With the participation of universities, research institutions, and Greek companies, we are strengthening our national technological base and creating the conditions for true autonomy in the development of space infrastructure and applications. The National Space Program lays the foundations for a new era and new cutting-edge programs, where Greece will not be a mere user, but a producer and exporter of expertise in the field of aerospace."

ESA’s Director of Earth Observation Programs, Simonetta Cheli, said: "The selection of ICEYE to develop the synthetic aperture radar satellites for Greece underlines ESA’s ongoing commitment to supporting national space initiatives from its Member States. The inclusion of ICEYE’s X-band synthetic aperture radar capability in the Greek ‘National Small Satellite Program’ is a compelling example of how space technologies translate into tangible and vital benefits on Earth."

CEO of ICEYE, Rafal Modrzewski, said: “This launch marks another important step both in supporting our customers in deploying their own constellations and scaling the world’s most advanced commercial SAR constellation. As global interest in space-based intelligence accelerates, ICEYE stands ready to help countries build sovereign satellite missions - turning high-quality satellite imaging into actionable intelligence for security and resilience.”

"At ICEYE Hellas, we are very proud to have contributed significantly to Greece's first crucial step towards autonomy in space. The launch of the first operational satellites under the Greek flag is just the beginning for the many more that we will build in Greece as part of our long-term investment plan for the country," added the Head of ICEYE Greece, Vasilis Chaloulakos.

"With Phasma, the Libre Space Foundation's seventh mission to space, we are pioneering the critical field of spectrum monitoring. The mission was developed on open-source principles, confirming that collaborative innovation delivers high-tech solutions. We are proud to continuously strengthen Greece's position in the new space age by promoting research and the democratization of knowledge," emphasized the Libre Space Foundation.

CEO of Prisma Electronics, Christos Giordamlis, stated: "The launch of MICE-1 is a moment of utmost importance and a significant proof of the capabilities of Prisma Electronics, which developed and constructed the nanosatellite in Alexandroupolis. With MICE-1, we are proving that Greek industry can produce cutting-edge technology and compete on equal terms in the international space and business arena."

Source: Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance; Photos/video: SpaceX

Read also via Greek News Agenda:  Greece’s National Small Satellite Program: 15 Microsatellites for Climate and Environmental Protection

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OpenAI for Greece is a new partnership between OpenAI, the Government of the Hellenic Republic, the Onassis Foundation, and Endeavor Greece, to expand access to high-quality AI tools in secondary education and accelerate innovation across Greece’s start-up ecosystem. This partnership establishes Greece as one of the first countries globally to collaborate with OpenAI on such a comprehensive national initiative.

In the context of the AI boom of the recent years, the Greek government has taken steps to formulate a national policy for leveraging the potential of AI, establishing a High Level Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence under the Prime Minister, and coordinated by the Special Secretariat of Foresight, already in November 2023. Its mission is to help the country seize the opportunity, spanning innovation and entrepreneurship, education and research, and AI integration into public sector services.

In order to bring this mission to life, the ‘OpenAI for Greece’ Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Hellenic Expo -which took place in Thessaloniki in September 2025- by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and ministers of the Hellenic Republic, alongside Anthony S. Papadimitriou, President of the Onassis Foundation, Chris Lehane, Chief Global Affairs Officer at OpenAI and Kevin Mills, Head of Education and Government GTM at OpenAI.

AI for Education

Greece will be among the first countries to pioneer the use of ChatGPT Edu, a version of ChatGPT for academic institutions. Built for large-scale use in education, ChatGPT Edu offers access to OpenAI’s latest models and supports GDPR compliance with enterprise-grade security and controls.

Greece will launch a pilot this academic year, starting with teachers from upper-secondary schools selected to reflect regional and socio-economic diversity. The first phase focuses on building AI literacy, helping teachers boost productivity and integrate AI responsibly into their work.

The Onassis Foundation will lead implementation along with local partners—including The Tipping Point—coordinating teacher onboarding, and managing day-to-day delivery in collaboration with OpenAI and the Greek government. OpenAI will co-design teacher training, provide technical support, and share best practices for safe, effective classroom use.

A joint task force, including representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Education, and the Onassis Foundation, will oversee the pilot. Following successful outcomes, the program is expected to expand across Greece’s education system.

This deployment comes as OpenAI works to improve how ChatGPT supports learning, with features like study mode, in light of both the opportunities and the challenges of integrating AI into education. Students worldwide are already embracing the technology, and ChatGPT Edu is seeing early adoption at leading institutions, including Harvard University and Oxford University.

AI for Innovation

The other branch of this two-fold approach is the Greek AI Startup Accelerator, a three-month program led by Endeavor Greece and developed in collaboration with OpenAI and the Greek Government, to support early-stage founders developing AI-native solutions with the ambition and potential to scale globally.

Its aim is to support AI-first founders who are building innovative, impactful products and want to pilot their ideas locally while scaling globally, providing a unique opportunity for ambitious Greek teams to gain access to the tools, mentorship, and network needed to compete at a global level. Greece has one of the highest percentages of STEM graduates in Europe, providing a strong educational foundation for AI skills and careers, and the program aims to create more opportunities right here in Greece and combat brain-drain.

Selected startups will benefit from a powerful combination of technology access, mentorship, and international visibility:

• Access to OpenAI Technology (including in OpenAI API credits, personalized technical mentorship, and exclusive group sessions with OpenAI engineers)
• AI Safety & Compliance Support (workshops on the EU AI Act, GDPR alignment, and safety-by-design practices)
• Global Exposure & Investor Access (connections to leading investors, partners, and fellow innovators, and the opportunity to participate in major global events)
• Endeavor Network & Mentorship (direct access to the Endeavor Network - connecting them with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and global mentors)

Together, these resources are designed to accelerate both technical progress and business growth, setting a strong foundation for the next generation of world-class Greek companies. The accelerator will prioritize start-ups developing AI solutions in sectors aligned with Greece’s national priorities—including education, public services, healthcare, and climate.

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The multidimensional value of tomato

The Greek agricultural sector has always been the cornerstone of the national economy.Tomato is not merely an integral element of the Mediterranean diet– it is a key driver of the Greek economy in general and of the economy of specific regions such as Central Macedonia, Thessaly and Peloponnese. Its cultivation represents a high percentage of the primary agricultural sector and it remains, consistently, among the country's top exported agricultural products, especially in high-demand markets, such as the UK, France, Germany, as well as in Greek Diaspora communities across the globe.

Notably, tomato serves as a vital raw material for the food industry and the production of sauces, juices and a wide range of derivative products. The multidimensional value of tomato is also evident in the creation of thousands of jobs, employing workers across all stages of the agriculture production chain.

An integral part of the Mediterranean diet

In 2010, the Mediterranean diet was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as it represents a living cultural practice. The Mediterranean diet promotes longevity, reflects traditional cooking practices and culinary techniques, emphasizes sustainability through the use of seasonal local and unprocessed products.

Tomato is one of the core ingredients of the Mediterranean diet, valued both for its exceptional nutritional profile, as well as its culinary indispensability. It is rich in vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and has been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, the tomato is deeply embedded in the daily Mediterranean diet, with its most famous culinary uses including the Greek (xoriatiki) salad, Gemista, stuffed with rice, and as a base for various tomato sauces used in multiple traditional dishes. Due to its wide range of culinary uses, the tomato reflects its everyday presence in Mediterranean life.

From Traditional Farming to Entrepreneurial Innovation

Today’s engagement in the agricultural sector must be distinguished from the “traditional farming way of life” of the past centuries. Agriculture, in the early years of the modern Greek state, was primarily a rural activity, carried out by small-scale farmers, who cultivated their small plots of land for family and local consumption, having no formal business plan. In contrast, today, tomato cultivation has broken these boundaries, evolving into a professional business activity for passionate connoisseurs of the rich Greek land, who operate across large geographic areas and apply modern agricultural expertise.

Greek tomato cultivation has embraced modernization, without losing its quality. Modern cultivation of products does not solely depend on traditional methods and manual labour. The process is now fully modernized and equipped with advanced machinery, innovative production methods and techniques, as well as systems for sorting and distribution, extending from the primary to the tertiary sector of production. These methods also reduce vulnerability to unpredictable weather conditions, which has always been a challenge in agricultural production. Despite the use of modern methods, Greek producers maintain products purity: careful harvesting and processing, precise management of temperature and humidity and the advanced cleaning and storage systems, contribute to avoid chemical preservatives, artificial colours and the loss of their freshness. However, manual labour remains an integral part of the agricultural production sector, ensuring high-quality and essentially expressing producers' deep love for the land.

Agriculture in Motion

Today, a Greek family, in Giannitsa, in Central Macedonia, has chosen to devote themselves to the treasures of Greek agricultural production: the tomato. Apostolos Kazakis tells us his story, on how the spirit of agricultural production and processing and the love for the goods of the land has been instilled in him from a very young age. «My grandfather began in 1942, being a small-scale traditional distiller. Then my father took over, and since 2000, I have been carrying on the Kazakis family tradition». Despite the prevailing shift towards modern urban lifestyles and careers, Greek families, such as the Kazakis family, chose to remain dedicated to agriculture. « I grew up to love our family’s tradition in the agricultural field. It's a demanding job, I used to spend most of my time growing up in our facilities, observing closely the production process ». When asked, what makes this product stand out, he referred to their cultivable lands, which produce a pure product, without preservatives, made with new methods but with old « know-how» and experience. This expertise was recognised, by receiving the Authentic Greek Taste Award, in 2022, established by the globally recognized organization Greek Taste Beyond Borders GTBB. 

Apostolos’ family is one of the many Greek families, maintaining the agricultural sector of Greece, with hard work, patience and commitment to their product and their tradition. They have promoted their products in the traditional way: word spread from one person to another and recently through social media, establishing their presence, not only in Greece but worldwide. Apostolos’ products have crossed borders, reaching German, Polish, French and especially Greek Diaspora consumers. He talks about this expansion as a touching moment, being only the beginning of spreading Greek tradition and flavour across the globe.

Athanasia Santikou [written during her internship at the Department of Digital Communication of E1 Directorate for International Public Relations]

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The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Thessaly is pioneering modern robotics technologies with a strong focus on environmental protection.

The University of Thessaly is at the forefront of agricultural innovation, developing next-generation solutions for smart farming and climate change adaptation. Through its Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the university is integrating IoT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), 5G networks, and robotics to reshape the future of agriculture.

This initiative—led by Professor Athanasios Korakis—will be presented at this year’s Thessaloniki International Fair (6-14 September 2025) highlighting how advanced agritech can transform both productivity and sustainability in farming.

“This year, the University of Thessaly makes a strong appearance at the Thessaloniki International Fair with five pavilions full of innovation, research, and creativity. We want people to see up close what it means to be a modern, open, and outward-looking university: from cutting-edge technologies and research achievements to initiatives that transform everyday life in local communities. TIF is our main stage to showcase that the University of Thessaly is here—with proposals, solutions, and a vision for the future,” said Professor Chrysi Laspidou, Vice Rector for Innovation, Internationalization, Partnerships, and Digital Governance.

Smart Crop Monitoring with IoT, AI and 5G

The first pillar of the project introduces a digital platform for precision agriculture and resource management. A nationwide IoT (Internet of Things) network of hundreds of connected devices collects and transmits real-time agricultural data across Greece—from the southern region of Laconia to the northernmost area of Nevrokopi.

By combining IoT, AI, 5G and cloud computing, the platform provides farmers and agronomists with valuable insights into soil quality, crop health, water usage, and environmental conditions. These tools support sustainable farming practices, improve crop yields, and help producers adapt to climate change challenges.

At TIF, visitors will interact with an agritech dashboard displaying live data and IoT node locations, as well as explore innovative devices such as weather stations, smart insect traps, and fruit-ripening monitoring systems.

Additionally, web and mobile applications will be presented, offering real-time advice and guidance to farmers, agronomists, industry professionals, and environmental agencies.

Autonomous Robotics for Precision Weed Control

The second pillar focuses on robotics in agriculture, showcasing autonomous vehicles for precision weed management.

Equipped with 5G connectivity, AI-powered image recognition, and robotic arms, these vehicles navigate farmland independently, identifying weeds and applying targeted pesticide spraying only where needed. This method drastically reduces chemical use, safeguards crops, and lowers both environmental and economic costs—using minimal amounts of pesticides..

At the Fair, a prototype robotic vehicle was demonstrated. Visitors will use VR headsets to view live video streams from the vehicle’s camera, remotely guide it, and simulate precision spraying in real time. This innovation highlights how robotic farming solutions can enhance efficiency while protecting workers and ecosystems.

Virtual Reality Training for Farmers and Students

The third pillar emphasizes digital education in agriculture. Using VR and cloud-based tools, the University of Thessaly has designed an interactive platform for hands-on training in sustainable farming practices.

High school students, agricultural students, and professionals can experiment with different scenarios—adjusting variables such as soil type, water quality, and weather conditions—to see how they affect crop growth.

At TIF, visitors tested the VR system, to make farming decisions, and instantly visualize the impact on virtual farmlands. This immersive training tool is designed to promote knowledge transfer, innovation, and sustainable agriculture for future generations.

Professor Athanasios Korakis on the Project

Speaking to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, Professor Korakis emphasized:

“The solutions developed by our Department, integrating Robotics, IoT, AI, VR, and 5G, are driven by real market needs and aim to solve everyday problems or take advantage of emerging opportunities in agriculture and beyond.”

He added:

“That is why these solutions are offered as services or products to stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, enhancing productivity and quality. In the long term, all these applications aim to protect the environment and help agriculture adapt to climate change—ensuring the sustainability of crops, rural areas, and local communities as a whole.”

I.L. with information from Athens-Macedonian News Agency and the University of Thessaly.

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