IRIDE Program: ASI Launches 7 HEO Satellites from Argotec Thanks to a SpaceX Falcon 9

Today, at 9:00 AM (Italian time), the CAS500-2 rideshare mission was launched via a Falcon 9 rocket from SpaceX, which took off from Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Inside the fairings were 45 different payloads, including 7 HEO satellites built by the Italian company Argotec for ASI (with coordination from ESA), intended for the IRIDE program (Italian Earth observation constellation).

The first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket (code B1071) completed its 33rd launch, landing at Landing Zone 4 (LZ-4). The mission is named after the CAS500-2 satellite developed by the South Korean space agency (KARI), which was considered the main payload (weighing approximately 500 kg). This is a solution for Earth observation in both panchromatic and multispectral modes using AEISS-C instrumentation. All payloads were placed in a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO), including the new Italian satellites.

Regarding the IRIDE program, the constellation is continuously growing, allowing for coverage of increasingly larger areas with greater frequency. It is noteworthy that this initiative is also linked to the PNRR and desired by the Italian government (the total expenditure exceeds one billion euros).

After the separation of the payloads, it was reported that the signal from all the satellites was detected by the Mission Control Center at Argotec's SpacePark (located in Piedmont). Thanks to this launch, the HEO constellation now includes 15 satellites, thus surpassing half of the planned program. These Argotec satellites each weigh about 70 kg and are equipped with multispectral optical sensors with a resolution of 2.6 meters/pixel. To date, over 1700 images and 3 TB of data have been collected.

Previously launched units are operational and already collecting useful data and images, while another 16 satellites of the IRIDE program (of different types) were already in orbit, bringing the total to 31 satellites. Overall, there will be 25 HEO satellites when the program is completed.

One interesting aspect of this constellation is that it is not composed of identical satellites but features heterogeneous capabilities, allowing it to cover various needs. Potential uses include monitoring hydrogeological damage and wildfires, coastal protection, monitoring critical infrastructure, air quality, and weather conditions. The data will also assist various companies and startups, SMEs, and industries.

Teodoro Valente (President of ASI) stated, "The IRIDE constellation continues to grow in line with the program's objectives, confirming its central role in developing advanced national capabilities for Earth Observation. The program demonstrates the effectiveness of government investments through the PNRR dedicated to space, aimed at strengthening the country's industrial and technological competitiveness, while simultaneously providing Italy with increasingly autonomous and strategic tools for land management and protection. In this context, collaboration with the European Space Agency and the involvement of the national industrial supply chain represent key elements for enhancing skills and innovation, reaffirming the capacity and expertise of the Italian space system on the international stage."