CONFERENCEThe University of Latvia (UL) implements European Regional Development Fund Project No. 1.1.1.5/2/24/A/004 “ERA Chair in Astrophysics, Instrumentation, Ground Segment Technologies and Space Photonics at the University of Latvia”, which is refinanced Horizon Europe ERA Chair project (Space-LV). Project period is 03.01.2025. – 30.09.2029. The budget of the project is EUR 2.5 million (85% covered by European Regional Development Fund and 15% covered by National Funding). The project was initially submitted to the Horizon Europe call "HORIZON-WIDERA-2022-TALENTS-01-01: ERA Chairs" and got the score above the threshold.
The aim of the Space-LV project is to develop the astrophysics, instrument development, earth technology sector, and space photonics field at the University of Latvia (LU) under the leadership of high-level ERA scientist (ERA Chair) Dr. B. Foing. The project will involve fundamental and applied research, publication of scientific articles, submission of new projects, and dissemination of results. The research team will demonstrate outstanding scientific performance, establish international collaborations, and enhance LU’s global recognition. The project will drive structural changes at LU, ensuring research excellence and student involvement in research activities.
The project was initially submitted to the "Horizon Europe" subprogram "Spreading Excellence and Widening Participation" under the "ERA Chairs" call. It met the quality threshold in evaluation but was not funded. Nevertheless, the project strengthens Latvia’s participation in the European Research Area (ERA).
The project contributes to the development of the RIS3 Smart Specialization area "Photonics and Smart Materials, Technologies, and Engineering Systems." The astrophysics, instrument development, earth technology sector, and space photonics field align with photonics themes, and project activities will include research on smart materials and technology development.
Project Activities:
d1. Recruitment of the ERA Chair group, establishment of the Space Photonics Laboratory (KFL), and ERA Chair missions.
d2. Operations of the Space Photonics Laboratory.
d3. Development of astrophysics observatory instruments and research in astrophysics and planetary science.
d4. Development of a fundamental geodynamic observatory.
d5. Strengthening human resources, career support, and fundraising.
d6. "Laboratory" for Horizon Europe, ESA, and industry projects.
d7. Project management, documentation, and science communication activities.
Key Expected Project Results:
21 original scientific articles published in journals or conference proceedings indexed in SCOPUS or Web of Science databases.
10 project applications submitted to international (e.g., Horizon Europe, European Space Agency) and local funding calls (e.g., Latvian Council of Science (LZP), European Regional Development Fund (ERAF)).
The project will enhance LU’s expertise in astrophysics, instrument development, the earth technology sector, and space photonics, fostering international collaboration, including partnerships with industry.
Page updated: 12.03.2025.