Astronomer Avetik Grigoryan, co-founder of the Yerevan-based space research laboratory Bazoomq, has been awarded the main "Hero of Our Time" prize. The award was presented to him by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan at a ceremony in the Demirchyan Sports and Concerts Complex, recognizing Grigoryan's outstanding contribution to the development of space technologies in Armenia.
The Bazoomq laboratory was founded in 2020 with the aim of promoting science, education, and startups in the space sector. In 2023, in collaboration with the Center for Scientific Innovation and Education, Hayasat‑1 was created — the first Armenian 1U CubeSat satellite, launched into orbit using SpaceX's Falcon‑9 rocket. The device successfully operated until April 2025, collecting data on its operation in space.
The Hayasat‑1 mission provided invaluable experience for the development of subsequent Armenian satellites, improving the stability of onboard systems, and conducting scientific research. The awarding of Grigoryan underscores the importance of national space initiatives and inspires a new generation of researchers.