Inmarsat Signs MOU with Hellenic Space Agency

Satellite communications provider Inmarsat has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Hellenic Space Agency (HSA) to allow greater collaboration on research and potential technology development.

The agreement, which will include a focus on satellite projects related to the Internet of Things (IoT) and the maritime sector, was signed this week at the international shipping event Posidonia 2018 in Athens by Inmarsat’s Maritime President Ronald Spithout and Christodoulos Protopapas, Chairman of the Hellenic Space Agency.

The HSA is mandated by the Hellenic Republic to promote space and technology and foster research activities related to advance scientific engineering within the framework of Greek government policy.

The MOU will specifically look at collaboration on research and development opportunities in space and ground segment technologies, as well as exchange of data.

Additionally, the two organizations will look at the role of satellite within the IoT and the potential for strategic research studies on future maritime software technologies and broader space policy. There is also an opportunity for secondments between the two organizations.

Spithout said, “This agreement underlines an already, strong and collaborative partnership between Inmarsat and the Hellenic Space Agency. We look forward to this further developing in the years to come and seeing the benefits of projects which will help shape our industry.”

Protopapas said, “Inmarsat is one of the most respected global space businesses and it is hugely exciting that this memorandum will pave the way for greater cooperation with us on a number of levels. Whether it is an exchange of skills, data or people, we will work on initiatives which will increase knowledge and understanding of the impact of satellite technology.”