Department of Aerospace Science and Technology

At a glance

The Department of Aerospace Science and Technology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens is Greece’s premier academic institution dedicated to the frontiers of space. Established in 2019, our department bridges the gap between traditional engineering and the future of cyber-physical space systems. We offer a rigorous, eight-semester undergraduate program (240 ECTS) that blends the fundamentals of Physics, Computer Engineering, and Aeronautics. From microsatellite design and UAV systems to mission operations and deep-space communications, our curriculum is built on an interdisciplinary philosophy that mirrors the global aerospace industry. We strive to not only teach theory, but to cultivate the next generation of researchers and innovators by providing a holistic, laboratory-focused curriculum designed to meet the high demands of the modern space sector.

The Department of Aerospace Science and Technology offers a modern undergraduate programme consisting of eight (8) semesters and corresponding to a total workload of 240 ECTS credits. The programme has been designed from the outset with a clear and substantive interdisciplinary mindset. It covers the full spectrum inherent in aerospace, including areas such as microsatellite systems, UAVs, on-board data subsystems and space software, control and navigation systems (AOCS/GNC, flight dynamics and GNSS), telecommunications (RF/TT&C) and optical/photonics technologies, system design–analysis–verification (system design & verification/AIT), as well as ground systems and mission operations. At the same time, it incorporates subject areas related to space environments and their effects, electrical power systems, structures, thermal engineering and propulsion, materials and manufacturing processes, as well as issues of quality, reliability, and safety.

This structure reflects the contemporary reality of Aerospace Technology, where platforms such as satellites, spacecraft, UAVs, and navigation and communication systems are quintessential cyber-physical systems. In this context, safety and reliability constitute fundamental prerequisites rather than optional objectives, while operational success depends on the close integration of software, computing infrastructure, and hardware. Indicatively, critical components such as Flight Software, Avionics, On-Board Data Handling systems, GNC functions, communication links, and payload processing require an integrated approach to their design, development, and verification.

Based on the above, the Undergraduate Programme of Studies (UPS) in Aerospace Technology integrates, in a coherent manner, the foundations of Physics, Computer Engineering, and Aeronautical Engineering, while simultaneously fostering a strong theoretical foundation and the systematic development of practical laboratory experience. Particular emphasis is placed on the design, development, and certification of modern Aerospace Systems, so that graduates acquire a solid scientific foundation and a competitive, up-to-date professional profile, suited to the needs of a high-technology sector that is evolving at a rapid pace.

For the first time, Greece is developing integrated national space infrastructures and services. The General Secretariat for Telecommunications and Posts of the Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence coordinates national space policy, ranging from the National Microsatellite Programme and government satellite infrastructures to the country's representation in European and international institutional bodies.

https://ggtt.mindigital.gr/section/space

25 New Scholarships for Aerospace Students Supported by the Greek Space Industry

The Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (AST) is pioneering a new era of collaboration with the Greek space industry by offering 25 scholarships of €1,500 each to first-year students admitted to the Department.

Aerospace has opened up tremendous opportunities for young people. Telecommunications, meteorology, Earth observation, navigation, satellites, and drones are among the technologies and professional fields shaping the jobs of today and tomorrow, offering an attractive career path for young people and significant professional opportunities in Greece and across Europe.

The Department of Aerospace Science and Technology has developed a pioneering and innovative programme of studies featuring a wide range of engaging courses covering satellite design, space missions, robotics, sensors, drones, and satellite applications such as telecommunications and Earth observation. Through new laboratories, hands-on courses, team projects, and paid internships in industry, aerospace students acquire unique skills that make them highly attractive to industry and enhance their prospects for successful professional careers.

The partnership between the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and the aerospace industry has established one of the largest scholarship programmes in Greece for Greek students. The programme will enable young men and women to pursue their studies and embark on careers in the rapidly growing aerospace sector.

The Greek companies supporting the scholarship programme for newly admitted students of the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology are:

Greek Space Industry – Participating Companies

HELLAS SAT – 4 scholarships, including 1 scholarship for a Cypriot student, as well as student internships during their studies (summer periods), ICEYE – 4 undergraduate scholarships and 1 full scholarship for a PhD candidate, EFA Group – 4 undergraduate scholarships, ISD – 3 scholarships, Adamant Composites – 2 scholarships, Open Cosmos – 1 scholarship, TELETEL – 1 scholarship., EMTECH – 1 scholarship, AKMON – 1 scholarship., FEAC – 1 scholarship, TOTAL VIEW – 1 scholarship.