LuxConnect To Host Control Center for EU’s Upcoming IRIS² Satellite Fleet

In a significant advancement for European space endeavors, Luxembourg-based data center operator LuxConnect will host a control center for the European Union’s upcoming IRIS² satellite constellation. This strategic development will be situated at LuxConnect’s Bettembourg facility, specifically housed within the DC1.3 phase two structure. The IRIS² initiative, which stands for Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite, is being spearheaded by the European Union in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA). This endeavor aims to establish a robust 290-satellite fleet intended to operate in both Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). The launch for IRIS² is slated for around 2029 and is being developed by the SpaceRise consortium, an alliance that includes prominent organizations such as SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat.

Funding and Support

The ambitious IRIS² project comes with a substantial €10.6 billion budget, which is being financed through a combination of public and private funds. Of this total, €6.5 billion stems from public sources, which includes a significant €550 million from ESA’s Partnership Projects program. The remaining funds, slightly exceeding €4 billion, will be contributed by the SpaceRise consortium that comprises SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat. Additionally, the Luxembourg government has pledged its support for the IRIS² project by providing co-financing alongside the European Commission. Luxemburg’s commitment is further demonstrated by offering a two-hectare site specifically designated for the necessary antenna infrastructure. This collaborative financial backing underscores the critical importance and high stakes associated with the satellites that will strengthen Europe’s Internet connectivity and security.

LuxConnect’s Role and Capabilities

LuxConnect, a state-owned data center operator, has campuses in Bissen and Bettembourg. The DC1.3 phase two structure is notable for its two 10MW feeds within a 23,500 sqm building. The first phase of DC1.3 launched in 2015, following DC1.1 at the same site in 2009. LuxConnect’s high-security and high-connectivity infrastructure expertise contributed significantly to its selection for the IRIS² project. The company’s unmatched skills make it an ideal candidate for managing large, sustainable satellite infrastructure. LuxConnect will host one of the control centers, with other operations spread across Telespazio’s Fucino space center in Italy and another site in Toulouse, France. This strategic distribution enhances coordination and integrates diverse expertise across Europe.

LuxConnect’s role in the IRIS² project underscores its established experience, reinforcing its position in European space advancements. Broader trends in the satellite industry reflect increased international cooperation, with developments like Rivada Space Networks’ memorandum of understanding to offer satellite connectivity to Vodafone Cook Islands and Loft Orbital raising $170 million for manufacturing growth, signaling substantial growth and investment in satellite technologies.

Explore more

How Can Introverted Leaders Build a Strong Brand with AI?

This guide aims to equip introverted leaders with practical strategies to develop a powerful personal brand using AI tools like ChatGPT, especially in a professional world where visibility often equates to opportunity. It offers a step-by-step approach to crafting an authentic presence without compromising natural tendencies. By leveraging AI, introverted leaders can amplify their unique strengths, navigate branding challenges, and

Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus May Debut Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 Chip

What if a smartphone could redefine performance in the mid-range segment with a chip so cutting-edge it hasn’t even been unveiled to the world? That’s the tantalizing rumor surrounding Xiaomi’s latest offering, the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus, which might debut the unannounced Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, potentially setting a new standard for affordable power. This isn’t just another

Trend Analysis: Data-Driven Marketing Innovations

Imagine a world where marketers can predict not just what consumers might buy, but how often they’ll return, how loyal they’ll remain, and even which competing brands they might be tempted by—all with pinpoint accuracy. This isn’t a distant dream but a reality fueled by the explosive growth of data-driven marketing. In today’s hyper-competitive, consumer-centric landscape, leveraging vast troves of

Bankers Insurance Partners with Sapiens for Digital Growth

In an era where the insurance industry faces relentless pressure to adapt to technological advancements and shifting customer expectations, strategic partnerships are becoming a cornerstone for staying competitive. A notable collaboration has emerged between Bankers Insurance Group, a specialty commercial insurance carrier, and Sapiens International Corporation, a leader in SaaS-based software solutions. This alliance is set to redefine Bankers’ operational

SugarCRM Named to Constellation ShortList for Midmarket CRM

What if a single tool could redefine how mid-sized businesses connect with customers, streamline messy operations, and fuel steady growth in a cutthroat market, while also anticipating needs and guiding teams toward smarter decisions? Picture a platform that not only manages data but also transforms it into actionable insights. SugarCRM, a leader in intelligence-driven sales automation, has just been named