SPACE-Crete | Major European Distinction for FORTH

A new Center of Excellence for emerging space technologies

SPACE-Crete will establish the Crete Center of Excellence in Emerging Space Technologies (CCEST), an independent entity designed to achieve long-term sustainability and international research excellence.

CCEST will draw on the combined expertise of FORTH’s Institutes of Computer Science, Astrophysics, and Electronic Structure and Laser, structuring its mission around three strategic pillars.

Intelligent space systems Optical & quantum communications Quantum sensors

From frontier research to innovation

With a focus on space communications, space surveillance and monitoring, and Earth observation, the Center aims to create, for the first time in Southeastern Europe, a fully integrated space technology ecosystem.

This approach spans the entire innovation chain: from fundamental research and new ESA-certified infrastructures to technology maturation and industrial uptake. A central component of the initiative is the upgraded Skinakas Observatory.

Transformational impact for Greece and Crete

CCEST is expected to significantly strengthen Greece’s position in the European space economy, serving as a coordination hub for emerging space technologies and supporting the country’s participation in major European initiatives.

For Crete, the project opens a new development chapter: more than 120 highly skilled jobs, attraction of scientific talent from Greece and abroad, growth of deep-tech startups, and stronger integration of space technologies into the island’s innovation strategy.

Education and human capital development

Education lies at the heart of the initiative. The Center will offer international Master’s and PhD programs, professional training, and lifelong learning opportunities for students, researchers, and professionals.

“Our vision is clear: to transform Crete into the ‘SPACE Island of Southeastern Europe,’ a hub of excellence that will position our country firmly and sustainably on the European map of space technologies.”

“SPACE-Crete builds upon our scientific legacy and opens new pathways for technological, economic, and research growth.”

The success of SPACE-Crete is made possible through the support of national and European stakeholders, confirming the strategic importance of space technologies for Crete and Greece.

Join the SPACE-Crete Pre-Kickoff Meeting

We are delighted to share news of the SPACE-Crete project and to invite you to our upcoming pre-kickoff meeting.

SPACE-Crete will establish an independent Center of Excellence that brings together scientific and engineering strengths to advance an ambitious mission: to create Southeastern Europe's first fully integrated space technology ecosystem and position Crete as the region's "SPACE Island." The Center will focus on developing AI-powered space systems and advancing optical and quantum communications.

Backed by €35M in funding, it will span the full innovation chain, from frontier research and new ESA-certified infrastructures to technology maturation and industrial uptake.

Ahead of the project's formal launch, we will hold a pre-kickoff meeting to establish a shared understanding of the project's goals and understand the needs of the community.

Date 2 October 2026

Location FORTH, Crete, Greece

Agenda Introductions, a review of the project structure and immediate priorities, and an open discussion of next steps.