Iran prepares for second satellite launch with Simorgh carrier, following Chamran 1 success

Iran prepares for second satellite launch with Simorgh carrier, following Chamran 1 success
Chamran satellite launched as part of scientific push in Iran. / CC: Press TV
By bne Tehran bureau September 15, 2024

Iran is set to launch its second satellite of the current administration using the Simorgh carrier rocket, following the successful deployment of the Chamran 1 research satellite, officials announced on September 15.

The Chamran 1, weighing approximately 60 kilogrammes, was launched into a 550-kilometre orbit on September 14 using the domestically-developed Qaem 100 satellite carrier, state news agency IRNA reported.

Initial signals from the satellite were received shortly after its deployment.

Seyyed Hamidreza Nejat, public relations officer for the Iranian Space Agency, stated on social media: "In the very near future, Simorgh will also carry another payload. The path of progress in the 14th government continues."

This launch marks the first successful satellite deployment under the current administration.

Hassan Salarieh, head of the Iranian Space Agency, had previously announced that 14 satellites were in line for launch.

The Chamran 1 satellite was developed by the Iran Electronics Industries Space Group (IEI) with support from the Aerospace Research Institute (ARI) and private-sector technology companies.

Its primary mission includes testing hardware, software, and orbital manoeuvring systems, as well as evaluating cold gas propulsion and navigation subsystems in space.

The Qaem 100, a three-stage, solid-fuel rocket created by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force (IRGCASF), completed its second orbital mission.

Iran had previously launched the Sorayya satellite using the same rocket in January.

The UK, Germany and France condemned the launch and claimed that the space carrier utilises technology for the development of long-range ballistic missile systems, Reuters reported on January 26.

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