The aim of the project is to develop the field of astrophysics, instrumentation, ground technologies and space photonics at the University of Latvia (UL) under the leadership of a high-level ERA scientist (ERA Chair) Dr. B. Foing. Basic and applied research will be carried out, scientific articles will be published, new projects will be submitted, the results will be publicised. The research team will show outstanding scientific performance, develop international cooperation and raise the international profile of the University of Latvia. The project will contribute to structural changes in the University of Latvia, ensuring research excellence and student involvement in research.The project was initially submitted to the "ERA Chairs" project competition of the "Spreading Excellence and Widening Participation" sub-programme of Horizon Europe. The project strengthens Latvia's participation in the Single European Research Area (ERA). The project contributes to the development of the RIS3 Smart Specialisation Area ‘Photonics and smart materials, technologies and engineering systems’. The field of astrophysics, instrument development, ground technology sectors and space photonics is included in the topic of photonics, the project activities include research and technological development of smart materials. 26.7 Manufacture of optical instruments and photographic equipment.Project type: "Non-economic project".The main activity of the project is "Horizon Europe Programme" and "Programme 10. The IP above the quality threshold would assess the financing of projects that have not received funding".The project sub-actions are: d1. Recruitment of the ERA Chair group, establishment of the Space Photonics Laboratory (CFL) and ERA Chair missions d2. Operation of space photonics laboratory d3. Development of instruments of the Astrophysics Observatory and research in astrophysics and planetary science d4. Development of a fundamental geodynamic observatory d5. Strengthening human resources, career support and fundraising d6. Horizon Europe, ESA and the "laboratory" of industry projects d7. Project management, document development and science promotion activitiesThe main planned results of the project:- 21 original scientific articles published in magazines included in the SCOPUS or Web of Science database or in the collections of conference articles; - 10 project applications submitted through international (e.g. Horizon Europe, European Space Agency, etc.) and local calls for proposals (e.g. LCS, ERDF); The project will develop the UL competence in astrophysics, instrument development, ground technology sector and space photonics and will promote the UL international cooperation, including cooperation with industry.The total cost of the project is EUR 2 493 125.00, of which the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) finances EUR 2 119 156.25 (85 % of the total project budget), and the state budget funding covers EUR 373 968.75 (15 %). Duration of the project: 57 months. Expected period of implementation of the project: from the date of conclusion of the project implementation agreement in January 2025 to 30 September 2029