Five new Greek microsatellites — all CubeSats designed for technological demonstration — were successfully launched into Earth orbit on Monday, 30 March 2026. The mission marks a significant milestone for Greece’s National Microsatellite Programme and strengthens the country’s presence in the global space and technology ecosystem.
Launch Details and International Collaboration
The satellites lifted off at 14:02 local time from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as part of the Transporter-16 rideshare mission. Integration onto the launch vehicle was managed by Exolaunch and D-ORBIT, with successful orbital deployment underscoring Greece’s growing capability in end-to-end space systems development.
Key Satellites and Their Objectives
Among the five are ERMIS-1 and ERMIS-2, developed by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) in collaboration with OQ Hellas and other national stakeholders. These satellites aim to demonstrate secure satellite communications and space-based Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
Also launched were ERMIS-3, developed by NKUA; PeakSat, developed by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; and Optisat, developed by Planetek Hellas. These missions focus on optical satellite connectivity and integration with upgraded ground stations — many of which are being modernised in cooperation with national observatories.
Broad Strategic Context
The five satellites are part of a larger cohort of eleven experimental CubeSats under the National Microsatellite Programme. Collectively, they aim to build domestic expertise and enhance national capabilities in critical areas including telecommunications, geospatial mapping, maritime navigation, precision agriculture, and natural disaster management.
The programme is led by Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), and funded through the Recovery and Resilience Fund.
Government Statement
In a statement, Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence Dimitris Papastergiou emphasized that the launch confirms Greece’s dynamic trajectory in the digital and space age. He highlighted that investments in knowledge, innovation, and human capital are intended to position Greece as a producer of globally competitive technological solutions.
“This launch affirms our country’s strong momentum,” said Papastergiou, adding that the programme serves as a catalyst for domestic industry and opens new pathways for young scientists and engineers.