The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) are co-organizing the 7th Quantum Technology Conference, taking place on October 7–9, 2025, on FORTH’s premises in Heraklion, Crete. The Conference, which has become a benchmark in the field of quantum technologies for space exploration, is held every two years in different European cities, aiming to promote scientific excellence and showcase cutting-edge technological achievements.

The Conference focuses on topics at the forefront of innovation in the field of quantum technologies, attracting distinguished speakers from leading universities and research centers across Europe. The conference opened with welcome speeches by Dr. Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General, Dr. Kyriaki Minoglou, Head of the Optics, Robotics & Life Sciences Division of ESA, and Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris, President of FORTH.

More than 150 participants from around the world are attending this conference which includes scientific lectures with eight keynote presentations, as well as visits to FORTH’s research laboratories and a guided tour at the Skinakas Observatory in Anogeia.

Within the framework of the conference, FORTH and ESA will also sign a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) aiming to strengthen their ongoing collaboration in the fields of quantum technology, informatics, astronomy, and astrophysics.

The European Space Agency (ESA) was founded in 1975 and currently consists of 23 member states, dedicated to the peaceful exploration of space for the benefit of humanity. ESA serves to coordinate European space activities and scientific interests through its broad network of scientists and engineers, established by its Member States.

Over its 40-year history, FORTH has developed a wide range of research activities, including quantum technologies, with significant expertise in quantum sensor technologies, photonics, and optics, as well as in signal processing and machine learning algorithms, becoming, in recent years, a strategic partner of ESA.

Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris, President of FORTH stated:

“The selection of Crete — and particularly FORTH — as the venue for this conference is a great honor for Greece and demonstrates that our country is conducting cutting-edge research that, not only follows, but also drives developments. The Memorandum of Intent with ESA seals our mutual commitment to continue the fruitful and substantive collaboration that has been developed between the Agency and FORTH’s Institutes. We are particularly proud to further contribute to ESA’s valuable work in the field of space technologies, which also contributes to our country’s scientific and economic growth.”

Dr. Kyriaki Minoglou, Head of the Optics, Robotics & Life Sciences Division of ESA, state: “ESA plays a key role in supporting European academia and industry in the space sector. With the explosive growth of quantum technologies, FORTH stands out as a bridge between academic research and practical applications. ESA’s choice to host and organize the 7th ESA Technology Quantum Conference in collaboration with FORTH, is a clear recognition of its position as a powerful partner, as its pioneering research and world-class facilities are crucial for the development of technologies that can shape the future of our missions. With the signing of the MoI, we are excited to continue and further strengthen this excellent collaboration in the years to come!”

Highlights from the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Intent (ΜοΙ) between FORTH and the European Space Agency: