Nicosia: The "Eratosthenes" Centre of Excellence of the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) and the Hellenic Association of Space Industry have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation. The agreement was signed on Wednesday at the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) in Nicosia, with the presence of Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki. This MoU establishes a strategic framework for collaboration between the Cypriot and Greek space technology ecosystems.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Memorandum, valid until 31 December 2030, outlines a broad framework of cooperation in Space Technology, Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, and Geoinformatics, as well as Defence and Security applications. It facilitates joint participation in research and development programs on European, national, and international levels, and fosters the development of innovative products and services. Additionally, it encourages networking and international outreach activities and aims to establish consortia for participation in ESA programs and other organizations.
The agreement emphasizes cooperation and knowledge exchange within the Greek ecosystem through the National Microsatellites Programme. It supports the joint development of innovative products and services for new designs of remote sensing, communications, and satellite navigation satellites. Furthermore, it seeks to develop tools combining remote sensing technologies and artificial intelligence, focusing on areas such as natural disasters, shipping, maritime surveillance, and environmental applications.
The press release further states that the Memorandum aims to strengthen the connection between "Eratosthenes" and Greek organizations in the space sector, creating a dynamic and supportive cooperation network. It also includes an annual networking day for the Greek and Cypriot industry to foster synergy between industry and the research community. Moreover, it plans for the creation of consortia to submit joint proposals to ESA, SAFE, and other European or international organizations.
Deputy Minister Irene Piki highlighted the Centre as a successful model of investment in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. She noted its rapid evolution into a leading hub in the Eastern Mediterranean, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The Centre, she said, contributes to scientific research and public policy formulation, supports entrepreneurship, and creates highly specialized jobs.
The Memorandum was signed by Professor Diofantos Chatzimitsis, CEO of the "Eratosthenes" Centre of Excellence, and Dr. Athanasios Potsis, President of the Hellenic Association of Space Industry. Professor Chatzimitsis remarked that the signing marks a significant moment for the "Eratosthenes" Centre, opening new horizons for space cooperation between Greece and Cyprus, utilizing advanced technologies like the DAS Satellite Data Acquisition Station recently installed in Cyprus.
Dr. Athanasios Potsis emphasized the importance of Greek and Cypriot space ecosystems in claiming their place within the European space technology environment. He underscored the need for strengthened cooperation between scientific and industrial stakeholders to boost economic and technological development in both countries.
The press release concludes by stating that the signing of the Memorandum heralds a new chapter of cooperation, enhancing the competitiveness and international presence of Greece and Cyprus within the global space community.