Stelios Bollanos (Planetek): Greek Space Tech Innovation

The ecosystem of Greek space technology companies is rapidly expanding. Planetek Hellas stands as a key player in the global ‘New Space’ movement—led primarily by private firms developing innovative applications and solutions powered by space technology. In an interview with newsit.gr, Stelios Bollanos, co-founder and CEO of Planetek Hellas, highlights how Greece’s strengthened national space policy—centered on its Microsatellite Program—has firmly placed the country on the New Space map. This year marks Planetek Hellas’ 20th anniversary in Earth observation and space applications. Starting with satellite mapping projects, the company evolved from producing geospatial data and software to designing and implementing full end-to-end space missions. ‘We’re closing a cycle—from basic maps to comprehensive space-based solutions,’ notes Bollanos. A major milestone is the upcoming launch of Planetek Hellas’ first Greek CubeSat aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. The ~6-liter satellite will test cutting-edge technologies—including an optical laser communication terminal developed jointly with Tesat (an Airbus subsidiary)—offering secure, jam-resistant connectivity. Ahead of launch, Planetek inaugurated its new Satellite Control and Guidance Center, enabling both internal mission management and third-party satellite system operations. This infrastructure strengthens Greece’s sovereign space capabilities and positions Planetek as a core contributor to the National Satellite Space Program. A strategic merger with D-Orbit—one of the world’s top New Space companies—further accelerates growth. Backed by Greek investment fund Faistos 5G Ventures, the partnership integrates Planetek into a pan-European group with 600+ employees and operations spanning the US to the UAE. Bollanos emphasizes that space tech is already deeply embedded in daily life: from GPS and weather forecasting to civil protection. Planetek actively supports the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, delivering disaster mapping within just two hours—and develops critical ground segment systems like the Payload Data Ground Segment (PDGS).