Fifteen-year-old Viktoras Giannikopoulos has gained international recognition for his work in quantum physics and his communication with NASA regarding future space exploration. His primary project involves a proposal for a mission intended to be the successor to the Voyager missions launched in 1977.
Speaking to Action 24, Viktoras explained his field of study simply:
“Quantum Physics is a branch of physics that deals with the microcosm—atoms and particles—rather than the everyday things that classical physics handles.”
Regarding his partnership with NASA, he stated:
“I had submitted the idea and it was accepted, so we are now in communication to implement this project…our goal is to realize this mission by approximately 2035.”
His vision is to use advanced technology to reach the current location of the Voyager probes in interstellar space more quickly, eventually reaching other solar systems, such as the constellation Camelopardalis.
Despite his success in physics, Viktoras has a multidisciplinary dream: “I would like to combine Medicine, which I love, with Astrophysics…the future with Artificial Intelligence lies in the combination of these two fields.” He is already conducting research involving cancer patients, studying “patterns” in life and the universe:
“I wonder if, by influencing the recurring patterns we follow—because our whole life consists of patterns, from the vast universe down to our daily routines—we can affect the appearance of malignancy in cancer patients.”
The 15-year old’s critique of the Greek education system
When asked about his future, Viktoras expressed a desire to move abroad for his studies, offering a blunt assessment of the current state of education in Greece: “While Greece is a very beautiful country, I don’t think it can offer academically what England or America can.”
“Greece is miles behind compared to educational systems abroad,” he said. “It would take many years for us to even say we are approaching them.”
He credits much of his success to his parents and his environment: “They read to me about the stars from a very young age, and that sparked my interest…they were there to help me through the difficult and easy times.”
Despite his high-level research, he maintains a structured routine: “When I return from school and finish my homework and obligations, I simply focus on the presentations I have to give and the missions with NASA.”
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