Nicosia: The Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), in collaboration with COSPAR (Committee on Space Research) and the Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO), hosted the inaugural Space Generation – SG [Cyprus] event at the Cyprus Space Research and Innovation Centre in Nicosia. This marked the first national event of its kind in Cyprus, bringing together students, researchers, young professionals, and international space leaders for a day of discussions, workshops, and networking sessions centered on innovation and Cyprus’s evolving role in the space community.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Annita Demetriou, President of the House of Representatives, welcomed ESA Astronaut Andreas Mogensen and emphasized the importance of nurturing Cyprus’s youth. She highlighted the nation’s ongoing transformation, noting that the ‘winds of change and progress have also reached Cyprus.’
CSEO President, George Danos, outlined the successful collaboration between CSEO and COSPAR, which has positioned Cyprus as an emerging hub for space research. He reflected on the progress achieved by CSEO over the past years, leading to Cyprus hosting the COSPAR Symposium 2025. Emphasizing the strong foundation of young talent in the country, he noted that events like SG [Cyprus] are crucial in empowering the next generation. He also presented CSEO’s international initiatives, including the coordination of a global space cluster.
The press release mentioned that Blue Origin Astronaut Chris Boshuizen discussed the future of space technology and innovation, encouraging the next generation to embrace risk-taking and continuous learning. ESA Astronaut Andreas Mogensen shared his journey from offshore oil rigs to becoming the first Dane in space and later the first Scandinavian Commander of the ISS.
George Troullias, founder of the KITION Planetarium and Observatory, shared insights into the history of SGAC’s presence in Cyprus. Moderated by Evandros Theodosiou, a panel explored Cyprus’s growing role in Earth observation and satellite applications, particularly in the context of its association with the European Space Agency (ESA).
Prof. Erick Lansard and Prof. Andreas Andreou discussed the importance of bridging academia and industry to foster innovation and introduced national-level initiatives in space technology. They explored how regional priorities can be addressed through collaborative Earth observation strategies.
The fireside discussion, led by Dr. Kai-Uwe Schrogl and Andronikos Kakkouras, focused on ESA’s strategic pillars and the celebration of its 50th anniversary. Dr. Schrogl emphasized the opportunities Cyprus’s new status as an ESA Associate Member State brings for scientific and industrial participation. Mr. Kakkouras highlighted the significance of this milestone for Cyprus.
Prof. Bernard Foing discussed space and planetary exploration, presenting the vision of space for all and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Prof. Pascale Ehrenfreund concluded the event with a keynote on COSPAR’s mission and global scientific initiatives, discussing the entrepreneurial growth of the space sector and the need for more STEM graduates in the European space workforce.