Greece to send astronaut into space within two years

Key facts

• Greece will send its first astronaut, Adrianos Golemis, into space within two years.
• Golemis has successfully passed European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut tests and entered its training program.
• The mission, part of Greece's National Space Strategy, will last up to three weeks.
• During the mission, Golemis will conduct experiments and technology demonstrations proposed by Greek research teams, institutions, and universities.
• The Greek government views this as an investment with both symbolic and substantive value.

Greece is set to send its first astronaut, Adrianos Golemis, into space within the next two years, marking a significant development under its new National Space Strategy extending to 2035. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the plan following a meeting with Golemis, who has successfully completed European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut tests and training.

The mission, expected to last up to three weeks, aims to carry out experiments and technology demonstrations proposed by Greek research teams, institutions, and universities. Mitsotakis emphasized both the symbolic and practical value of the endeavor, highlighting its potential to inspire young generations and showcase Greek innovation on a global stage.

Golemis, who has been involved with space medicine and supported astronauts since 2018, is preparing for his mission to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency has pledged support for exploring the potential of commercial space flights for Greek citizens.