The actions and initiatives that enhance Greece's participation in the European Space ecosystem, as well as the significance of the participation of a Greek scientist in the official astronaut training program of the European Space Agency (ESA), were presented at a press conference held on March 23, 2026, at the Ministry of Digital Governance.
The press conference was attended by the Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, and the General Secretary of Telecommunications and Post, Konstantinos Karantzalos, who highlighted the importance of Dr. Adrianos Golemis’s inclusion in the ESA astronaut training program, a development that marks a significant milestone for the country.
For the General Secretariat of Telecommunications & Post, this development represents a major national milestone, as it marks the first Greek participation in the European Space Agency’s astronaut training program. It reflects the steady progress of the national Space strategy and confirms the systematic work that has been carried out in the Space sector in recent years.
The participation of a Greek scientist in the program significantly strengthens Greece’s position within the European Space ecosystem. At the same time, it creates new opportunities for the academic and research community, universities, research institutions, and high‑tech companies, expanding avenues of collaboration with ESA and other international organizations.
The training program will take place at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne from April to October 2026. It includes intensive theoretical training, practical exercises, and specialized evaluation procedures, constituting a key stage of preparation for future participation in European space missions.
This development enhances Greece’s role in the European Space environment and highlights the importance of the strategy implemented in recent years. In this context, the General Secretary of Telecommunications & Post, Konstantinos Karantzalos, stated:
"The commencement of the training of a Greek astronaut is a particularly significant milestone for our country, integrated into the broader framework of the national space strategy and the actions implemented by the Ministry of Digital Governance. This initiative is not a standalone action but is part of a coherent set of policies, projects, and investments systematically carried out in recent years. Through these actions, Greece strengthens its presence in the field of Space, leveraging the capabilities of science, technology, and innovation. At the same time, our country approaches space issues holistically, recognizing both their significant scientific dimension and their increasing geopolitical role."
The statement of the General Secretary underscores the central role of the General Secretariat of Telecommunications & Post in shaping and implementing the national space strategy. The GSTP coordinates the country's actions in Space, develops critical infrastructure such as the "National Microsatellite Program," and enhances Greece's participation in ESA programs, creating opportunities for universities, research bodies, and technology companies.
In this way, it contributes to the development of a modern and outward-looking space technology ecosystem, confirming that the country possesses the knowledge and maturity of projects to further strengthen its presence in the European Space domain.
