Hydrone Project

Reference

The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced the 'HydRON' project to develop its own satellite network for space-based internet.

What is Hydron Project?

• ESA's Hydron project plans to revolutionise the way we transmit data between satellites in space by using laser signals.
• This network will be able to provide internet speeds of around one terabyte per second.
• The Hydrone Project system consists of two major components
  • Scientific research to create a network
  • Initial demonstration to test
• The project will use satellites in both low orbit (1,000 km above Earth) and geostationary orbit (about 36,000 km).

Features of Hydrone Project

• Traditionally satellites transmit radio communications signals from space to receivers on Earth, which then distribute the information to various services such as cellphone holders and air traffic control.
  • An important aspect of Hydron is the use of lasers to transmit data between satellites.
• This approach not only speeds up data transfer but also increases security.
  • This prevents the signal from being intercepted by cyber criminals and it remains unaffected even in bad weather.

Objectives of the Hydrone Project

• Creating a spoof-proof mega-constellation of satellites to deliver high-speed broadband
• Reducing dependence on ground systems and increasing efficiency and reliability
• Addressing the growing need for data
• Providing Internet access in remote areas that lack broadband
• Providing users with high-quality video streaming

European continent benefits from Hydron project

• According to ESA, this technology will transform Europe's optical telecommunications industry, enabling the continent to lead this fast-growing market.
• Public sector customers such as the European Union's operational space programme and security agencies are likely to be the first users of the Hydrone network.
• SpaceX's Starlink has already established a network of low-Earth orbit satellites using similar technology.
  • However, ESA's Hydron system aims for greater data capacity and broader coverage.
• ESA plans a phased launch of Hydron between 2027 and 2029.