The Estonian Space Research and Technology Capacities Introduced in Brussels

Tartu Observatory and the Estonian Liasion Office for Research and Innovation organized a joint seminar on Dec 9^th 2014 in Brussels to introduce the Estonian space research capacities, the Copernicus programme, and challenge young generation of researchers to discuss about the strategies how small countries like Estonia can participate in large European projects and initiatives.

Head of the Estonian Space Office, Madis Võõras gave an overview about the current developments of the Estonian Space policy, relations to ESA and EU.

Deputy Head of Unit of Copernicus Services from DG Enterprise and Industry (DG Growth) Peter Breger opened up the real benefits and opportunities for small countries to participate in the EU Earth Observation and monitoring programme Copernicus.

Director of Tartu Observatory Anu Reinart introduced the Estonian cutting-edge research capacity of the institute, skilled people and modern infrastructure in space sector to work out value-added chain from fundamental science to public services in close cooperation with other research institutions, universities, and enterprises in EU and worldwide.

Young astrophysist Mihkel Kama from Leiden University shared his thoughts about small countries in large astrophysics projects. He suggested making choices - focusing on projects’ to participate, and collaborate on it. He also advocated encouraging the researchers’ mobility, because only through personal contacts you can build up strong networks between institutions.

Head of Galileo Service Provision sector, DG Enterprise (DG Growth) Hillar Tork asked all participants in the roundtable to point out the main issues that support Estonia from its’ current position to highway to space.

Andreas Veispak, Advisor of Director General of DG Enterprise (DG Growth) added valuable comments on SME Instrument in Horizon 2020 as useful tool to work out the research based services, and for positioning Estonia in the larger context of European and international development.

Estonia’s highest priorities in space activities today lay in the development of Earth Observation methods and specific technology usable in space – instruments, nanosatellites and services, in close cooperation with the conception of digital Estonia. We can achieve the high goals through focusing our research priorities, exchange of researchers, and participation in strong international technology consortia.

Additional information about the event and presentations are available here.