Greece Launches Its First Satellite Into Space: DUTHSat-2

In a remarkable achievement, Greece successfully launched its first satellite, DUTHSat-2, into space on Monday evening (June 23, 2025). The launch took place at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in the USA, facilitated by SpaceX’s Transporter-14 mission using the Falcon-9 rocket. Designed and built by scientists from Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with Greek companies, this satellite marks a significant milestone for Greece’s space ambitions. Supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), the satellite will provide images and measurements concerning soil moisture and marine pollution, including oil spills and wastewater discharges from ships. Weighing only 7 kilograms, DUTHSat-2 was deployed into orbit approximately one hour after launch at an altitude of 510 kilometers above sea level. Over the next six months, it will undergo operational checks and begin conducting Earth observation experiments. This mission is part of Greece’s broader strategy to enhance national capabilities in Earth observation and secure space communication. The Ministry of Digital Governance highlighted that this successful launch initiates a series of upcoming Greek satellite missions aimed at boosting technological and operational capacities. Funded under the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the National Microsatellite Program underscores Greece’s commitment to innovation, sovereignty, resilience, and technological self-sufficiency.