What is Astra

An alliance between public and private bodies, aiming to bridge between pure research and its numerous applications, in order to implement innovative technologies in the space sector.

The project

The partnership

Astra sees the participation of three public research centers and two private entities. The former are the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI), the University of Perugia and the National Institute of Astrophysics (INAF). The private bodies are the Bruno Kessler Foundation and Thales Alenia Ltd.

Researchers, post-docs and technologists hired for this project

11 People
36% Women

Structured personnel

85 People
26% Women

How far have we progressed?

Follow the progress of the project, its individual work packages and its tasks.

Project ends on 31 December 2025

Ongoing It ends on 12/2025

WP1 Advanced technologies for Space industry

In the framework of this WP1, the Spoke and Spoke affiliates will develop innovative technologies of great interest for the …

Ongoing It ends on 12/2025

WP2 Digital platforms for Space industry

WP2 aims at the realization of shared digital platforms to support innovation in research institutions and industrial supply chains operating …

Ongoing It ends on 12/2025

WP3 Technology Transfer and Impact Management

This work package will implement an innovative approach to technology transfer for the spoke activities. Thanks to the creation of …

Financial resources

Here you can find all the information about the project’s financing and track the progressive transfer of funds.

10.4 Million euro Project's total cost
3.8 Million euro Transferred to the project so far

Last published articles

The Scientific Output Generated by the Astra Project
29 July 2025

The Scientific Output Generated by the Astra Project

A dedicated section of the website is regularly updated with new publications linked to the project’s activities, reflecting the ongoing research carried out by Astra’s scientists.

The Value of Astra Through Citizen Engagement
26 June 2025

The Value of Astra Through Citizen Engagement

Beyond cost-benefit analysis, the Astra project uses experimental economic methods to explore how much scientific research is worth to the public.

Assessing the Value of a Research Project
30 May 2025

Assessing the Value of a Research Project

Scientific impact, ethical use, and social value: a conversation with Adriana Carolina Pinate.

Latest publications

Peer-reviewed journal papers - Technology Transfer and Impact Management

Publications as part of Astra WP3 (updated July 2025)

Peer-reviewed journal papers - Digital platforms for space industry

Publications as part of Astra WP2 (updated July 2025)