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Iris 2: Europe's Ambitious Space Project Faces Criticism
Europe's largest space project, Iris 2, faces criticism over reduced SME involvement despite securing \u20ac10.6 billion in funding.
German
Germany
TechnologyEuropean UnionArtificial IntelligenceEuropeCybersecurityFundingIndustrySpace
Eu CommissionHispasatEutelsatSesAirbus
Miguel \U00C1Ngel PanduroElon MuskMarie-Christine Von HahnMatthias Wachter
- What is Iris 2 and what is its primary objective?
- Iris 2 is a European space project aiming to create an independent space-based telecommunication system, comprising 290 satellites and ground stations, to rival Elon Musk's Starlink.
- Which companies are part of the Iris 2 consortium?
- The Iris 2 consortium consists of Hispasat, Eutelsat, and SES, along with major players like Airbus, Thales Alenia Space, OHB, Deutsche Telekom, and Orange. The consortium will manage the development and deployment of the satellite system.
- What is the total budget for the Iris 2 project and how is it funded?
- The project's total cost is estimated at \u20ac10.6 billion, with the EU contributing \u20ac6 billion, the private sector \u20ac4.1 billion, and the ESA \u20ac0.5 billion. The project is expected to be completed by 2030.
- How have different industry groups reacted to the final agreement on the Iris 2 project?
- The BDI (Bundesverband der Deutschen Industrie) criticized the weakening of the SME quota, arguing that the European Commission should leverage the innovation of startups and SMEs. Other industry groups, such as the German Aerospace Industry Association, expressed more positive views.
- What is the controversy surrounding the involvement of SMEs and startups in the Iris 2 project?
- The German government pushed for a 30% participation of SMEs and startups in Iris 2. However, the final agreement only mandates that at least 30% of the contract value be awarded to subcontractors, potentially including larger companies.