Italy is making significant strides in the field of Earth observation with the development of the innovative IRIDE satellite constellation. The contracts for this ambitious project were recently signed by key players including Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency (ESA), Giampiero di Paolo, CEO of Thales Alenia Space Italia (TASI), and David Avino, founder and CEO of Argotec.
Argotec will be responsible for delivering 15 satellites, while TASI will contribute six NIMBUS Synthetic Aperture Radar satellites. The combined value of these contracts exceeds €140 million, highlighting the substantial investment being made in this cutting-edge technology.
Simonetta Cheli expressed her satisfaction with the progress of the IRIDE constellation, emphasizing the importance of the collaboration between ESA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI). She noted that 2025 will be a pivotal year for the completion of the programme’s development and the launch of the first IRIDE satellites into orbit.
Teodoro Valente, President of ASI, also underscored the significance of the IRIDE project, stating that it will offer valuable benefits in the areas of Earth observation, resource management, and sustainability. The constellation will provide crucial information for monitoring environmental conditions in Italy, supporting efforts to address challenges such as hydrogeological instability, wildfires, and air quality.
The IRIDE constellation will incorporate a range of sensing instruments and technologies, including microwave radar imaging and optical sensors. These diverse capabilities will enable the satellites to provide valuable data for researchers and public authorities alike.
Initiated by the Italian Government, the IRIDE programme is set to become operational by June 2026, following its launch in December 2021. The project is a collaborative effort involving 73 companies from across Italy, with a focus on boosting the country’s space industry and creating new job opportunities.
Mid-term evaluations of the IRIDE programme have highlighted its positive impact on the Italian space sector, including advancements in satellite technology and increased national expertise. The programme has also led to the creation of new capabilities, such as a Synthetic Aperture Radar constellation in an inclined orbit.
Overall, the IRIDE satellite constellation represents a significant milestone for Italy’s space industry, paving the way for new global market opportunities and driving growth in the sector. With its innovative technology and collaborative approach, IRIDE is set to make a lasting impact in the field of Earth observation.
