Greece is inviting the public to propose a name for its first astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), ahead of a planned two-week journey by European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Adrianos Golemis in the summer of 2027.
Golemis will conduct Greek and European scientific experiments during the mission, marking the first time a Greek astronaut has travelled to the ISS.
The Hellenic Space Centre and the Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence have launched the public initiative, asking people to suggest a name that reflects the mission’s purpose, the astronaut’s personality, Greece’s cultural identity or the values behind the project.
The Hellenic Space Centre describes a mission name as deeply symbolic, capable of expressing both the scientific objectives and the wider cultural significance of the undertaking.
The mission also represents a collective effort involving research centres, universities, companies and specialists from Greece and across Europe, all working to plan and deliver the project.
In a video published on the Hellenic Space Centre’s social media channels, Golemis says the ideal name should incorporate elements of Greek cultural identity, scientific research and exploration, as well as the spirit of international cooperation.
He also offers some personal inspiration for potential suggestions. Golemis is a doctor and amateur astronomer, enjoys the sea and has spent a year in Antarctica.
Requirements for proposed names
Organisers have set out several guidelines for submissions. The proposed name should be a short word or combination of words that people can easily remember and pronounce in both Greek and English.
It should appeal to people of all ages, particularly younger generations in Greece and across Europe. Organisers also discourage the use of personal names, except for figures from mythology whose symbolism is widely recognised.
The deadline for submissions is 30 October 2026.
Members of the public can submit their suggestions through the official Hellenic Space Centre website:
Propose a name for Greece’s first astronaut mission
(Source: AMNA)
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