IRIDE in action: first image over Italy
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This first images from the IRIDE constellation mark the start of a generation of optical multispectral images from satellites entirely designed and integrated in Italy.

Data from IRIDE’s satellites will be used to map and monitor coastal and marine zones, helping to protect the cultural and environmental heritage of Italy’s coastlines. The programme will also contribute data to monitoring air quality, land cover, climate and water resources; mapping land motion (for example, due to volcanoes, earthquakes or subsidence); as well as emergency and security services.

Many of the services will be available to local and regional public authorities in Italy, signalling an increase in the use of satellite technology in the routine activities related to managing local urban or rural environments. For example, IRIDE will provide services to help manage town and city planning, monitor changes in land coverage, and the effects of urban heat islands.

“These first images show the extraordinary potential of IRIDE, made possible thanks to the skills and motivation of the teams from ESA, ASI and Italian industry, said ESA’s Head of Earth Observation Programmes, Simonetta Cheli.

She added, “I would like to congratulate Argotec, Officina Stellare, Exprivia and all the companies involved in the creation of this constellation. Thanks to the trust placed in us by the Italian government and the solid collaboration between ESA and ASI, the programme is proceeding with great success.”

And according to Teodoro Valente, president of ASI, IRIDE demonstrates Italy’s commitment to investing in research and innovation to address future challenges. He noted, “This success is the result of teamwork that sees Italy as a protagonist in space. We will continue to work with determination to ensure that this constellation reaches its full operational capacity, respecting the objectives of the PNRR and providing valuable data for our country and the international community.”