Source: IndianExpress
Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.
IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite) is the European Union's strategic satellite initiative designed to provide secure and high-speed internet connectivity.
Developed in partnership with the SpaceRISE consortium, it aims to rival Elon Musk's Starlink and bolster Europe's autonomy in space-based communication.
IRIS² is a response to the growing reliance on satellite constellations for connectivity and security, marking a significant step in the EU’s space ambitions.
Feature |
Details |
|
Total Satellites |
290 satellites (264 in Low Earth Orbit, 18 in Medium Earth Orbit) |
|
Purpose |
Dual-use: Governmental (border security, crisis management) and civilian applications. |
|
Coverage |
Primarily focused on Europe unlike Starlink’s global reach. |
|
Launch Timeline |
First launch expected in 2029. |
|
Funding and Cost |
€10.6 billion ($11 billion) funded by the EU, ESA and private partners. |
|
Consortium Members |
Includes SES, Eutelsat, Hispasat, Airbus, Deutsche Telekom and others. |
Aspect |
IRIS² |
Starlink |
|
Number of Satellites |
290 (interlinked for efficiency) |
Over 7,000 (with plans for tens of thousands) |
|
Primary Coverage |
Europe |
Global |
|
Applications |
Security-focused with high-speed broadband |
Primarily commercial internet services |
|
Infrastructure |
Multi-orbital (Low and Medium Earth Orbits) |
Low Earth Orbit |
IRIS² reduces Europe’s dependence on external satellite systems like Starlink aligning with the EU's strategic autonomy goals.
With a 12-year concession contract worth €10.6 billion, IRIS² stimulates the European space economy creating opportunities for private companies and fostering innovation.
Unlike Starlink, IRIS² emphasizes security supporting governmental missions and safeguarding critical sectors.
IRIS² introduces a compact, interlinked satellite constellation contrasting with Starlink’s vast but decentralized network.
At €10.6 billion, the project requires sustained financial and political commitment.
A focus on Europe limits its competitiveness against Starlink's global reach.
Competing with the scale and speed of deployment by private players like SpaceX.
Expand beyond Europe by collaborating with other nations and regions.
Promote civilian applications to garner public support and adoption.
Focus on minimizing space debris through sustainable satellite deployment and management practices.
Sources:
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Which of the following statements about SpaceX’s Starlink satellite system is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (b) Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Starlink primarily operates in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) rather than Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). Statement 2 is correct. Starlink is designed to provide high-speed internet particularly to underserved or remote locations. Statement 3 is correct. Concerns have been raised about space debris due to Starlink’s large constellation and its impact on astronomical research. |
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