Greece is making waves in the space sector with the upcoming launch of MICE-1, the country’s first nanosatellite dedicated to maritime applications. Developed by Prisma Electronics in Alexandroupoli, this tiny but mighty satellite is set to lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral, USA, on November 19, 2025. This isn’t just a launch; it’s a leap into the future of maritime monitoring and communication.
MICE-1, short for Maritime Identification & Communication systEm-1, is packed with cutting-edge technology. It’s designed to provide maritime identification, communications, and monitoring services using IoT technologies, machine learning data analysis, and advanced encryption. Once deployed at an altitude of 510 kilometers, MICE-1 will communicate with the ground station at Democritus University of Thrace, exchanging data that will support the LAROS maritime monitoring system, which is already installed on over 800 ships worldwide.
“This is a historic milestone for Greek space technology,” said Christos Giordamlis, CEO of Prisma Electronics. “MICE-1 represents the first step in a planned constellation of Greek nanosatellites for maritime applications, combining Greek engineering expertise with international collaboration. The satellite has passed all laboratory tests and ESA’s Final Acceptance Review and is ready for launch.”
The development of MICE-1 involved the efforts of over 40 engineers from Prisma Electronics, along with close collaboration with Greek universities, including the Democritus University of Thrace. European partners such as Exolaunch, Endurosat, GoSpace, and IC-SPACE also played crucial roles. Funding was provided through Greece 2.0, with regulatory coordination supported by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Dr. Athanasios Potsi, president of the Association of Greek Industries of Space Technology and Applications (EBIDITE), noted, “This launch marks Greece’s entry into the global space sector and highlights the country’s growing capabilities in satellite design, manufacturing, and operations. It is a key step toward establishing a robust Greek space technology ecosystem.”
The MICE-1 mission underscores Greece’s commitment to innovation in maritime technology, aerospace, and IoT applications. By positioning itself as an emerging player in nanosatellite development and space research, Greece is not just entering the space race—it’s setting the pace for future maritime monitoring and communication technologies.
This launch is more than a technological achievement; it’s a testament to what can be accomplished through collaboration and innovation. As MICE-1 takes to the skies, it carries with it the aspirations of a nation ready to make its mark on the global stage.