Airbus (www.airbus.com) and the Hellenic Space Agency (www.hellenicspaceagency.gov.gr) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering future space co-operation, focusing on Earth observation, space exploration and future growth opportunities, including software research and space policy. Established in 2018, the HSA is part of Greece’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Transport and Networks.

A key element of the MoU is to share ‘best practice’ in encouraging future generations to be involved in space, ranging from promoting STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects to sponsoring research activities relating to space.

The MoU will also look to encourage the exchange of personnel between Airbus and HSA to enhance knowledge sharing and understanding.

This agreement between Airbus and HSA follows an MOU that was signed between HSA and the UK Space Agency and announced in January this year.

Justin Byrne of Airbus Defence and Space UK said: “This MoU builds on the co-operation we have already begun with the Greek space industry and academia on programmes such as Solar Orbiter and ExoMars.

“We look forward to future collaborations across Earth observation, science and wider space applications.”

Meanwhile, Airbus Defence and Space revealed the winners of its ‘best in class’ awards last month, with an official ceremony at its 5th Supplier Conference.

The four winners — Mercury Systems, Airgrup SL, All System and Kappa Optronics — were selected from the entire supply chain of more than 10,000 suppliers.