On November 27, 2023, the launch of the HAITF (Hellenic Assembly, Integration, and Testing Facility) project took place at the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) facilities in Schimatari.

According to a relevant announcement, the main objective of the HAITF project is to design, implement, and operate a modern infrastructure for the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of space hardware and satellites within the facilities of the Hellenic Aerospace Industry SA.

The HAITF infrastructure will be able to host space hardware and small satellites to support the assembly and integration of satellite subsystems into the spacecraft as well as the conduct of operational and environmental testing.

The assembly and integration process is the final stage of satellite systems manufacturing, usually involving the physical and electrical connection of the satellite subsystems to the spacecraft. Functional tests verify the functionality and reliability of satellite subsystems, including that of the entire system before, during, and after environmental testing.

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Environmental tests simulate the space environmental conditions, starting from the launch of the satellite until it is placed in orbit. These tests guarantee that the satellites will operate in Space and their operation will be reliable during their lifespan. In addition, the success of the satellite mission is also guaranteed. Appropriate facilities (e.g. vibration test system or thermal vacuum chamber) and equipment are required for these tests.

The HAITF project is to be completed in three (3) years. It is funded by the European Commission under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRF) and supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), acting on behalf of the Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance for the Hellenic National Space Program.

The HAITF project is an important opportunity for HAI to expand its turnover in the field of space applications, acquire know-how in the construction and testing of satellite systems as well as create new specialized jobs for young scientists.

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