Cyprus is set to make strides in space technology with the creation of a micro-satellite expected to launch in 2026 and the introduction of a 3D metal printer, one of the few of its kind in Europe.

The Selective Laser Melting (SLM) 3D metal printer will be used to develop the micro-satellite. Both the equipment and progress in these two fields were presented on Friday at the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization (CSEO) headquarters.

Distinguished scientists from the Center and project partners from Cyprus and abroad gave presentations, attended by the Deputy Minister of Innovation and the Chief Scientist.

The Cyprus Space Center (C-SpaRC) is being developed under the aegis of the International Space Research Organization and has been selected as an International Center for Space Innovation.

The micro-satellite, expected to be completed in 113 weeks, will likely be launched from a U.S. launch center, although the exact location is still under evaluation.

Confidence was expressed that the licensing process for frequencies and the launch would be swift, as micro-satellites operate in lower orbital positions and orbit Earth quickly.

According to the presentations, the satellite will be launched into an orbit approximately 500 km above Earth, with its precise position and trajectory still under discussion. It may remain in space for up to five years.

The satellite's technology allows for an extended mission, with low energy consumption and high data transmission capacity.

Experiments conducted will focus on space weather, using NASA sensors to better understand the impact of solar storms on Earth's atmosphere and biology. Data will also be collected on the environment and forests to enable early detection of wildfires, assist navigation, and contribute to migration studies.

Regarding biological research, scientists will study gene expression changes in astronauts during space travel, exploring whether these changes can be reversed. This research also has applications on Earth, particularly in the development of personalized medicines.

During the presentations, scientists detailed the research and innovation involved in creating the micro-satellite, the development of an ecosystem, infrastructure for certifying space mission capabilities to reduce launch risks, and the real-time ability to send commands to the satellite.

The satellite, which will include 3D-printed parts, is being developed in collaboration with NASA and COSPAR, the leading international space research organization.

All presentations were given by project partners, including the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization (CSEO), the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING), the CYENS Centre of Excellence, the University of Cyprus, Aretaeio Hospital, and representatives from NASA TRISH and the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory.

CSEO President George Danos explained to the media during the presentation that the metal 3D printer is essentially the first major machine arriving at the Cyprus Space Center.

"This is the strategic infrastructure we are implementing with competitive funding from the Research and Innovation Foundation, in collaboration with NASA. It is one of the few metal printers of its kind. The quality of the printing, the size of the printed parts, and the ability to use multiple metals—such as aluminum, steel, titanium, and more—along with innovative generative design technology, allow us to create metal parts or space instruments that are much lighter. When launching something into space, like our micro-satellite, you want it to be as light as possible to reduce launch costs," he explained.

Danos added that this technology will enable the rapid production of micro-satellites while also supporting the broader ecosystem.

Kyriakos Michael, a mechanical engineer and head of strategic infrastructure at CSEO, mentioned that such systems already have practical uses in industries, including defense.

"For example, they are used for quick repairs, producing replacement parts rapidly. If something breaks on a ship, this machine can quickly print the necessary component, and it is used in the military as well," he explained.

Deputy Minister of Research and Innovation, Nikodemos Damianou, congratulated all the scientists and emphasized the serious and important applications of these technologies. He expressed hope that they will be effectively utilized to expand the space technology ecosystem, which is a significant focus for the Ministry.