Iran Launches Satellite, Positions It in 750 km Orbit: Official News Agency

Iran successfully launched a satellite into orbit on Saturday, January 20, marking a significant achievement for its space program. The satellite, named Soraya, was propelled by the Qaem 100 satellite carrier, a development of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. This launch, as reported by the official IRNA news agency, represents Iran’s first successful placement of a satellite in orbits exceeding 500 kilometers (310 miles) above the Earth.

Telecommunications Minister Issa Zarepour confirmed that the 50-kilogram satellite was positioned in an orbit approximately 750 kilometers above the planet. The Qaem 100 rocket, a three-stage solid-fuel satellite launcher, is a novel technology for Iran, showcasing its advancing capabilities in aerospace.

Iran’s track record with satellite launches has been mixed, with several past attempts failing. However, in April 2020, Iran successfully launched Nour-1, its first military satellite.

The Iranian space program has faced criticism from Western countries, particularly the United States, which has expressed concerns that the technology used in rocket launches could potentially be repurposed for ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Iran has consistently denied such allegations, asserting that its space program is solely for civil and defense purposes and that it has no intentions of developing nuclear weapons.

The relationship between the United States and Iran saw a brief warming period following the landmark nuclear deal under former U.S. President Barack Obama. However, this détente was disrupted when former President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement, reimposing severe sanctions on Iran. The Biden administration has since endeavored to revive the nuclear deal, but these efforts have yet to yield significant progress.