Iran says it sent into space its heaviest-ever payload using a domestically developed rocket. Tehran’s advancing aerospace capabilities have raised concerns in the West.
TechnologyIran
Iran launches its heaviest-ever payload into space
Iran says it sent into space its heaviest-ever payload using a domestically developed rocket. Tehran’s advancing aerospace capabilities have raised concerns in the West.
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This image taken from footage aired by Iranian state television shows an Iranian satellite carrier rocket
Iran used the homegrown Simorgh — a two-stage, liquid-fueled satellite carrier — for the operationImage: Iranian state television/AP/picture alliance
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Iran said it had successfully sent its heaviest-ever payload into space on Friday using a domestically developed rocket.
The launch comes amid growing tensions between Iran and the West over conflicts in the Middle East and Tehran’s controversial nuclear program.
What we know about the launch
The payload weighed about 300 kilograms (660 pounds) and consisted of a telecommunications satellite and a space tug. It was placed in an elliptical orbit with a high point of 410 kilometers (255 miles) and a low point of 300 kilometers, state media reported.
The launch took place at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in rural Semnan province.
There was no immediate independent confirmation of its success.
Iran used the homegrown Simorgh — a two-stage, liquid-fueled satellite carrier — for the operation. The rocket, developed by the Iranian Defense Ministry, had previously suffered a series of failed launches.
