Space Science & Industry: Komvos’ Initiative and Greek Efforts
One year ago, at Komvos’ 2nd Annual Conference, the new initiative “Space Science & Industry” was launched, aiming to promote collaboration between research institutions, industry, and educational initiatives in the space sector. The panel included Stamatios Krimigis, Emeritus Director of Space Programs at NASA and The Johns Hopkins University and founding member of Komvos; Adrianos Golemis, Chief Flight Surgeon at the French MEDES/ESA institute, the first Greek to successfully complete the ESA selection process for new astronauts, and corresponding member of Komvos; and Anezina Solomonidou, planetary scientist and collaborator of the Hellenic Space Center, member of the International Advisory Committee. The speakers highlighted the multiplier benefits of space technologies for everyday life and presented Greece’s dynamic developments in the sector, including the activities of the Hellenic Space Center (ELKED).
At the same time, Komvos announced the creation of an online hub connecting all relevant stakeholders, as well as educational programs for young people aspiring to careers in space. This year, at the 3rd Annual Conference, Stamatios Krimigis and Adrianos Golemis returned as key speakers, emphasizing the same themes.
Greece in Space
Recently, SKAI TV’s Primetime visited the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne, following the training of new astronauts. Scientists and astronauts discussed the challenges of life in microgravity and humanity’s preparation for missions to the Moon and Mars. The program highlighted Greece’s growing presence in the space sector, emphasizing the participation of Greek scientists and professionals in international missions and space technology applications.
Adrianos Golemis became the first Greek to successfully complete all six stages of the ESA astronaut selection process, providing Greece with its first opportunity to be represented in a research mission in space. He described the requirements faced by astronauts, the medical procedures applied by support teams in microgravity, and the adjustments to techniques and protocols to safeguard their health. Golemis also monitors the health of European astronauts throughout every stage of their missions, from preparation and training to their stay in space and post-flight recovery. This past summer, he participated in the AX-4 mission of Axiom Space, overseeing astronauts’ return from the International Space Station and supporting their rehabilitation at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne.
Anezina Solomonidou emphasized the importance of technological innovation and international collaboration, noting that “technologies developed for space provide multiplier benefits for everyday life and the advancement of other scientific fields.”
Additionally, other scientists contribute to the Greek space ecosystem, including Eleftherios Karagiannis (ESA trainer), Ariadni-Christina Valagouti (nutritionist, DLR), Stylianos Kyrimis (PhD in Mechanical Engineering, DLR), and Apostolos Mylonas (Head of Auditing, HRE ESA), bringing their expertise to promote innovative applications and strengthen Greece’s presence in the international space arena.
You can watch the full show here (in Greek): Prime Time | Ευρωπαϊκό Κέντρο Αστροναυτών
Recently, Greece also achieved a milestone with the launch of five Greek microsatellites, enhancing its technological presence and Earth observation capabilities for research, operational, and development purposes.
The Role of Komvos
Greece already has a significant presence in the space sector, and Komvos aims to actively contribute by connecting researchers, industry, and young scientists, building bridges that strengthen development and innovation in the country.
