Telekom Jumps on Board with EU's "Iris2" Satellite Network Project
Telecom Company Partners in European Initiative 'Iris2'
Hop on, Telekom! The Deutsche Telekom is joining forces in the construction of a European network of communication satellites, billed as the "Iris2" project. On a Thursday announcement, they mentioned providing IT and data center services for this satellite initiative.
Claudia Nemat, the tech chief of Telekom, dropped a few words about the necessity of secure and modern connectivity for Europe. The European Union (EU) kick-started this project, all set to launch 290 satellites in low and medium Earth orbits for Internet and mobile connectivity. The ultimate goal? Making Old Continent less dependent on providers like Elon Musk's Starlink.
Along with Telekom, the "SpaceRise" consortium includes satellite operators Eutelsat and SES, as well as OHB, a space company based in Bremen. This European endeavor sees public and private companies working hand-in-hand to create the space-age network that probably won't be up and running before 2030.
Now, let's talk strategy. "Iris2" forms part of the EU's approach to build a self-sufficient satellite infrastructure. This network aims to enhance communication security, privacy protection, and position Europe as a digital powerhouse and technology trailblazer. However, the project has its technical and financial hurdles, which could potentially delay its launch[1][2][5].
As of now, expect the "Iris2" network to light up the sky by as early as 2030[3]. This deadline is in sync with broader European plans for satellite infrastructure development, including compatibility with other networks like OneWeb constellation[2][5]. Eutelsat, one of the major operators, is also part of the expansion efforts for the OneWeb constellation[2], hinting at potential collaborations or synergies between such EU satellite projects and the crowd[1]. The European Space Agency (ESA) and the EU itself are at the forefront driving this project forward, with ongoing negotiations between member states and the private sector to make the project a reality[5]. Source and Source [subject to change due to dynamic nature of the internet]
References:
- Deutsche Telekom in Talks for EU Satellite Projects
- Eutelsat Engages in Expansion of OneWeb Constellation
- Europe Aims for 2030 Launch of First Satellites in "Iris2" Network
- Iris2 - Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite
- Iris2 - A Satellite Communication Development Project in Europe
In the spirit of fostering a connected Europe, the Deutsche Telekom, by adhering to its community and employment policies, has pledged to offer IT and data center services for the "Iris2" satellite network project. To further bolster this space-age network, the project also incorporates elements from various branches of science and technology, aiming to position Europe as a leading power in the realm of digital innovation, space-and-astronomy, and cutting-edge technology.
