IRIS² in Europe is a new project that has been announced by the European Union and the European Space Agency (ESA). This is an alternative option to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which aims to create a satellite-based internet service like Starlink. Its first launch is planned for 2029.
What is the IRIS² project in Europe?
Europe is aiming to create its own secure and independent satellite communication network and for this aim, the project IRIS² is announced.
IRIS² stands for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite, which will help in improving current EU systems like Copernicus and Galileo.
It will help in giving more accurate navigation and timing and delivering valuable Earth data.
With a budget of €10.6 billion ($11.1 billion), this project is a partnership between the EU, ESA, and a private group known as SpaceRISE.
SpaceRISE is led by satellite companies like SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat and includes major companies like Airbus and Thales, so the EU, ESA, and SpaceRISE plan to put almost 300 satellites into orbit for this project.
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IRIS²: An alternative to Starlink
With the IRIS² project, Europe will create a strong, independent European satellite network that might improve internet access, especially in remote or underserved areas.
Through this project, Europe will build a satellite internet service that will compete with current and upcoming services like SpaceX’s Starlink and can bypass bad internet.
Most of the Internet service will be used for commercial broadband services, but a significant part will focus on government communications like security and crisis management.
This will help in providing a secure option for government and security needs.
It will be different from Starlink as it will introduce new features like “direct-to-cell” communication and a secure option for the government as well as for the public.
Also, more companies will join the satellite internet market due to IRIS², which will lead to lower prices and better services for EU citizens.
Well, this is going to be an amazing project for Europe and its citizens.
