Speech by the Chief Scientist on CSEO C-Spark Event

Your excellencies

Esteemed Deputy Minister

Dear Executive Director of Nasa Translational Research Institute for Space Health

Dear COSPAR Associate Director

Dear Mayor of Nicosia

Esteemed Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with great honor that I stand before you today, at the premises of the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization (CSEO) for the inaugural ceremony of C-SpaRC.

The Cyprus Space Strategy for 2022-2027 outlines our commitment to strengthening the national space ecosystem with key pillars, including Space Technologies, Space Communication services, Earth Observation, Space education and Space science. A key strategic objective for us to become ESA Associate Member by 2025.

The objective of the strategy to address key areas such as top-class research and commercialization of research results, supporting startups in in the global space industry and developing satellite-based services.

As the Chief Scientist I have visited numerous high-tech and deep-tech entities across Cyprus and witnessed firsthand the excellent work carried out by our national ecosystem. Today Cyprus boasts a bigger and stronger research and innovation ecosystem, comprised of 50 unique organizations, 33 enterprises, 13 research organizations, 4 government and local administrations. In recent years we have seen the emergence -within our national research and innovation ecosystem- of a small yet vibrant cluster specializing in space technologies building on the existing research conducted in areas of Earth Observation, Environment & Climate Research, Infrastructural and Environmental Monitoring, Geospatial Information, Earth Data Analytics, Information Extraction, Communication technologies, advanced materials.  We have identified its potential in our smart specialization strategy, and have been investing in growing it further, strengthening its capabilities and enhancing its extroversion. To this extent, the national funding agency for Research and Innovation, the RIF, has invested through competitive processes in strategic infrastructures in priority areas such as health, environment and energy, agrifood, maritime and shipping, ICT and space. These are large-scale infrastructures that enable our ecosystem to leverage as a research and technology “platform” creating world class collaborations by inviting foreign partners to also join in their efforts and carry out cutting edge research and innovation delivering world-class results that makes an impact regionally but also globally.   As per the national strategy, these newly infrastructures will be open to the ecosystem, acting as an enabler to both existing and new entrants.

It is in fact through this competitive funding process that C-SpaRC was selected to create a multi-million Euro strategic infrastructure to carry out interdisciplinary work focusing on space weather, human spaceflight health and advanced space technologies.  And it is truly remarkable that this infrastructure has brought together local partners, such as the Cyprus Institute of Neurology (CING), Cyens, the University of Cyprus, Aretaieion Hospital and Space Systems Solutions (S3).

The Cyprus Institute of Neurology is a leading research center in Cyprus specializing in biomedical research, which will contribute expertise in human biology and genetics by providing high-end experimental facilities, Data integration and systems bioinformatics analysis, personalised and precision medicine approaches to SWx impacts on human health. CYENS Centre of Excellence is another leading research center, which will contribute its expertise in AI and data analytics applied on SWx.  The University of Cyprus which will provide expertise in microelectronics and the development of a CubeSat payload. Aretaeion Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in Cyprus will collaborate on research into the effects of space weather on human health on the ground. Last but not least, is Space Systems Solutions (S3), which is a Cypriot leading space technology company, contributing expertise in CubeSat development and systems integration.

I would like to note and commend  the teams of the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization and those of the Bio Informatics, Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology Department of CING who embrace gender equality participating with 50% of female researchers.

The Cyprus space research center will also have leading international partners such as NASA Trish and Nasa Marshall, Lockheed Martin and the Sodankyla Geophysical Observatory from finland.  A truly global collaboration network!

This is not just about space! It is about tangible results happening here, in Cyprus, which aim to position us in the global space industry which is growing exponentially! C-SPaRC will enable our scientists and researchers to work alongside experts from NASA, ESA and COSPAR, to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity in its mission for space exploration.

CSpaRC is well aligned with the Cyprus Space Strategy, a blueprint designed to propel Cyprus into the forefront of the space sector. This is not about reaching the stars, it is about improving life here on Earth. It is about creating high-tech jobs for talented scientists, and researchers attracting, talent and investments and fostering a thriving space sector here in Cyprus. It is about offering opportunities to young talent to work internationally from Cyprus and be part of the exciting opportunities the space sector offers

It is a catalyst for growth and a beacon for generations to come. Imagine a future where Cyprus contributes to scientific efforts to design, build and launch of micro-satellites into space. A future where our own scientists,and researchers collaborate and work side by side with the best minds around the world opening together doors to groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements. From state-of-the-art Space Weather monitoring and forecasting that allows us to protect infrastructure from solar storms, ensuring uninterrupted communications that facilitate business continuity to space medicine whereby organs-on-chips are used to study the unique biology of individuals under various conditions and the findings are transferred for the development of tailored drugs for a range of medical conditions.

And to give one such tangible example, allow me to share that in just 111 weeks we expect to have the first Cyprus-built micro-satellite soaring into orbit! With know-how and future skill sets being built in Cyprus. The infrastructure, tools and expertise that the C-SpaRC brings with all partners will pave the way for future projects.

Cyprus occupies a strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This unique location enhances our connectivity and elevates us as a pivotal hub for space research and international cooperation. Our vision is to leverage this strategic advantage to foster robust relationships with global space agencies, research institutions, and industry leaders.

Cyprus is ready to play a significant role in the future of space research, exploration and education. Our strategic initiatives, combined with the exceptional talent and dedication of our people, position us as key contributors to advancements in space technology and science. The government’s commitment to supporting this emerging sector will ensure that Cyprus continues to shine as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the global space community, paving the way for Cyprus to become a stronger regional Technology, Innovation and Research hub!

Thank you!