The European Union (EU) has launched its latest space infrastructure project, Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite (IRIS²). This initiative marks the EU's third major space endeavor, following the success of the Galileo navigation system and the Copernicus Earth observation program.
Understanding IRIS²
IRIS² is an innovative satellite project aimed at strengthening connectivity and security within the EU. Here are its key features:
Development: Supported by the European Space Agency (ESA) and other collaborative partners.
Objective:
Deliver secure connectivity and high-speed broadband in regions with poor or no network access.
Enhance government services such as border surveillance and crisis management.
Satellite Network: Comprises 290 satellites deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO).
Significance of IRIS²
Bridging the Digital Divide:
Addresses connectivity challenges in underserved and remote areas, ensuring high-speed internet access.
Supports digital transformation across Europe.
Strengthening Security:
Provides secure satellite-based communication for critical government operations, including defense, disaster response, and border monitoring.
Enhances cyber-resilience within the EU.
Boost to Space Capabilities:
Positions the EU as a leader in advanced satellite technology.
Complements existing programs like Galileo, the most accurate civilian satellite navigation system, and Copernicus, the world's largest Earth observation initiative.
IRIS² in the Global Context
The project aligns with similar global satellite initiatives:
Starlink by Elon Musk:
Aims to establish a satellite-based broadband network with approximately 7,000 satellites.
Focuses on providing internet access worldwide, particularly in remote areas.
China’s Guowang Satellite Network:
Designed to integrate satellite communication with terrestrial 5G networks.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper:
Intends to launch a constellation of over 3,000 satellites for global broadband services.
These efforts collectively demonstrate the growing reliance on satellite technology to overcome terrestrial network limitations.
Relevance for UPSC Preparation
Aspirants studying science and technology, international relations, or geopolitics can explore IRIS² as a case study on:
Technological advancements: Insights into satellite communication systems and their societal impact.
Strategic cooperation: Role of international partnerships in driving innovation.
Space as a strategic domain: Importance of space infrastructure in national security and global diplomacy.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements regarding IRIS²:
It is the EU’s first major space infrastructure project.
The system is supported by the European Space Agency (ESA).
IRIS² comprises 290 satellites deployed exclusively in geostationary orbit.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Komentar