BiDS | BIG DATA FROM SPACE 2025

     29 September - 3 October 2025 | Riga, Latvia

The Space Sector in Latvia

Latvia actively contributes to the global space sector with a rich historical heritage and modern technological innovations. The space industry in Latvia is characterized by its internationally recognized achievements and sought-after competencies, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, technology, data, and scientific research.

Latvia's space infrastructure is a vital part of its heritage. The Irbene Radio Telescope Complex, home to the RT-32 radio telescope—the largest in Northern Europe—is a critical asset for space data transmission and deep space exploration. Latvia is also integral to the International LOFAR Telescope, supporting scientific discoveries through its advanced facilities. The complex is home to Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre. Additionally, the Schmidt Telescope at the Baldone Observatory remains the largest optical telescope in the Baltics and one of the largest in the world. 

Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) station “1884 Riga” is a member of International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) and contributes to the research in space geodesy, supports precise orbit determination for the space missions like the Copernicus Sentinel-6 mission and participates in the EU Partnership of Space Surveillance and Tracking activities. The University of Latvia’s Institute of Astronomy whose researchers work also at the observatory has been recognized as a partner of the United Nations Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence (UN-GGCE).

The space sector is one of the key policy areas of the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia, which works closely with national and international partners to ensure the country remains at the forefront of space exploration and innovation. Latvia's space ambitions are outlined in the The Space Strategy of Latvia 2021-2027, which focuses on four main objectives:

1.   Advancing education and skills development

2.   Increasing participation in space supply chains

3.   Enhancing scientific and engineering research

4.   Expanding governmental services

One of the fundamental aspects of Latvia's space policy is its partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA). Since becoming an Associate Member in 2020, Latvia has participated in numerous high-profile projects, including the Lunar Gateway mission. This collaboration has resulted in over 100 innovative projects, receiving over 19 million euros in funding from ESA. The establishment of ESA BIC Latvia in 2024 further strengthens the country's position, fostering entrepreneurship and providing direct access to international missions that enhance Latvia's technological expertise, export potential, and STEM human capital.

Latvian companies are known for their innovations in smart materials, photonics, precision instruments, and engineering solutions, with applications spanning industries such as forestry, agriculture, maritime, and smart cities. With nearly 50 organizations involved in space-related activities, Latvia plays an influential role in Earth observation, space exploration, and advanced technological development. Companies like Allatherm, Eventech, and RD Alfa Microelectronics are pioneering advancements that are contributing to national and international space missions. Furthermore, organizations such as Baltic Satellite Services, the Institute for Environmental Solutions, and Latvia's State Forests specialize in downstream applications including forest monitoring, a niche in which Latvia excels. However, the country's expertise spans a broad spectrum of space-related technologies.

For those seeking to explore Latvia's space sector, the Latvia Space portal serves as an invaluable resource. It offers a comprehensive directory of organizations and facilitates collaboration opportunities with global partners.

Education and research are pillars of Latvia's space ambitions. Leading academic institutions such as Riga Technical University, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, and the University of Latvia offer specialized programs and courses that cultivate the next generation of space professionals. Research institutes like the Institute of Solid State Physics and the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry also contribute to scientific advancements in space technologies.

Additionally, Research Latvia is an essential platform for showcasing Latvia's research and innovation landscape, including its growing space sector. By highlighting the country's strengths in scientific research and technological development, Research Latvia amplifies Latvia's role in the global space community.

Latvia's space sector is prepared for continued growth and offers significant innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration opportunities.

The conference “Big Data from Space” is organized within the framework of the ERDF project No. 1.1.1.1/1/24/I/001 “More Efficient Implementation and Management of Latvia's Science Policy”.