SSC Space is delivering mission operations and ground segment support services for the Eaglet II constellation of the IRIDE Earth Observation, Italy’s flagship space infrastructure program, in coordination with OHB Italia as prime contractor and satellite manufacturer.
”Within the scope of the ongoing contract, we will support OHB’s Mission Control Centre (MCC) in Rome, providing qualified engineering personnel and operational expertise across spacecraft operations, ground segment activities, and mission support functions”, says Davide Starnone, Country Managing Director, SSC Space.
These services ensure safe, continuous, and efficient operations throughout the Eaglet II constellation deployment, commissioning, and routine operational phases, in full compliance with applicable safety, security, and operational standards.
IRIDE is an initiative of the Italian Government coordinated by the European Space Agency (ESA) with the support of the Italian Space Agency (ASI). It is structured as a “constellation of six constellations,” composed of satellites employing different technologies and capabilities support institutional and civil applications.
The constellation is being deployed progressively, with an increasing number of satellites entering service over time, leading to a corresponding growth in operational complexity and workload.
“Our contribution is founded on operational continuity and close integration with OHB Italia’s teams and processes”, continues Mr. Starnone.
The approach ensures robust anomaly management, effective coordination with ground stations and stakeholders, and proactive support to the evolution of operational concepts, procedures, and tools as the Eaglet II constellation expands, contributing directly to the reliability, resilience and long-term sustainability of the IRIDE program.
The IRIDE system will support a wide range of strategic applications, including civil protection, environmental monitoring, climate change assessment, and national security-related services, reinforcing Italy’s autonomous Earth observation capabilities.
