The Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) is launching a new series of open events under the title “epikoinonITE” (a Greek acronym for: Science–Society–FORTH). These series will be of great interest to the general public, aiming to disseminate the research results and to connect scientific knowledge with everyday life and the core values of society.

The program began with “Contact Point”, an original series of public discussions, each time featuring a FORTH scientist and a distinguished artist. “Contact Point” brings Science and Culture into a Creative Dialogue, fostering open and constructive communication of science through art.

The first event of the series, on the theme of stars, was entitled “Who Knows What Lies in Other Stars” (from a poem written by Kostis Palamas) and took place on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 20:00, at FORTH’s new Science and Cultural Center, located on the corner of Averof & Zografou Streets in Heraklion, Crete.
In this special meeting, two prominent figures in their fields, discussed the human need to understand the Universe, the poetry of the sky, and the science of astrophysics.

Loudovikos ton Anogeion
Singer, composer, lyricist, author, and painter

Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris
Chairman of the Board of Directors of FORTH & Professor of Astrophysics, University of Crete

The discussion was open to the public and was moderated by Anthi Strataki, coordinator of the 'epikoinonITE' initiatives.

The promotional video of the event can be found here: https://youtu.be/5zkvXgu-hdI

Special thanks to “LYRARAKIS Wines” for their kind sponsorship.

Supported by

Watch the full event video here

Please find below the photos of the event: