Oslo, Norway – Integrated Detector Electronics AS (IDEAS), a leading provider of cutting-edge detector electronics solutions, is pleased to announce its recent collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) on behalf of the EU Agency for the Space Program (EUSPA) to deliver Radiation Monitoring Units for the EU Galileo Second Generation satellites. This contract marks a significant milestone in advancing space exploration and ensuring the safety and reliability of satellite operations.
Under the terms of the contract, IDEAS will design, develop, and supply state-of-the-art Radiation Monitoring Units that will be integrated into the upcoming Galileo Second Generation satellites. These instruments will play a vital role in monitoring the radiation encountered in space and providing valuable data for safeguarding the satellites, ensuring their optimal performance and longevity in the harsh space environment.
The satelite navigation system Galileo is used for many purposes, like transport, construction, control of large computer systems, agriculture, research and more.
IDEAS brings years of expertise in the field of detector electronics to this program, offering highly reliable and efficient radiation detection and imaging solutions. The company’s advanced technology and commitment to innovation align perfectly with the goals of the European Space Agency and the Galileo program. IDEAS is proud to contribute its expertise to such a critical aspect of space exploration and satellite navigation.
In this project, IDEAS partners with Kongsberg Defence & Aero space – a leading Norwegian manufacturer of electronics for space. Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace will assemble and test the Radiation Monitoring units in their facility at Horten, Norway.
“We are thrilled to partner with the European Space Agency in delivering radiation monitoring units for the Galileo Second Generation satellites,” said Gunnar Maehlum, CEO, at IDEAS. “Our team at IDEAS is dedicated to providing cutting-edge electronics solutions, and this collaboration allows us to further our commitment to advancing space technology. We are confident that our radiation monitoring units will enhance the performance and reliability of the Galileo satellite system and provide data to increase our knowledge of the radiation environment in space.”
Near-earth asteroids, solar storms and space weather, and space junk are the biggest treats from space.
Illustration: ESA
Galileo is currently the world’s most precise satellite navigation system, serving four billion users around the globe since entering Initial Services. All smartphones sold in the European Single Market are now guaranteed Galileo-enabled. In addition, Galileo is making a difference across the fields of rail, maritime, agriculture, financial timing services and rescue operations. Galileo is a flagship program of the EU Space Program, managed and funded by the European Union. Since its inception, ESA has taken the lead of the design and development of the space and ground systems, as well as procuring launches. EUSPA (the EU Agency for the Space Program) acts as the service provider of Galileo, overseeing the market and application needs and closing the loop with users.
The precicion level of Galileo compared to other satelite navigation systems.
Graphics: EUSPA
By incorporating IDEAS’ Radiation Monitoring units, the satellites will have an enhanced ability to detect and respond to radiation events, ensuring uninterrupted service and longevity in the harsh space environment.
About Integrated Detector Electronics AS (IDEAS): Integrated Detector Electronics AS (IDEAS) is a leading provider of electronics solutions for radiation detection and imaging in a wide range of applications, including space exploration, medical imaging, and particle physics research. With a focus on innovation, reliability, and performance, IDEAS offers advanced integrated circuits and electronics systems tailored to meet the unique requirements of each project. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and collaborating with industry leaders, IDEAS strives to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of detector electronics.
The views expressed in this Press Release can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the European Union and/or ESA.
For media inquiries, please contact: Gunnar Maehlum, CEO, Integrated Detector Electronics AS, Gjerdrums vei 19, gunnar at ideas dot no