Iran Prepares for First Domestic GEO Satellite Launch by Year-End
WANA (Dec 02) – Iran’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Sattar Hashemi, has announced that preparations are underway for the country’s first domestically made satellite launch to the geostationary orbit (GEO) at 35,000 kilometers above Earth by the end of this year. He expressed hope that the first research launch into GEO will take place before the year ends.
Hashemi highlighted the significant progress made in Iran’s space industry in recent years, noting the continuation of this trend with the reappointment of the head of the Iranian Space Agency in the 14th government.
Hashemi emphasized the importance of balanced development across various sectors and the need for sustainable development. He is particularly focused on accessing GEO, which differs significantly from Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Latest Status of Indigenous Satellites Hodhod and Kowsar
WANA (Nov 30) – The CEO of Omid Fazaa, a knowledge-based company, discussed the current status of the indigenous Hodhod and Kowsar satellites, which were recently launched into space using a Russian launcher. He stated that both satellites are in the “acquisition phase.” This phase occurs between the satellite’s separation from the launcher and […]
He explained that the technological complexities of GEO are what make this goal especially compelling. Reaching GEO requires careful and precise steps, and it happens not in one moment but in a fraction of a second. Some of the processes involved will also make use of artificial intelligence. Reaching 35,000 kilometers above Earth is a challenging yet captivating endeavor.
The Minister expressed hope that the first research launch into GEO will be completed by the end of the year. He added that while this mission is still experimental, it could open the door for further space exploration for Iran.
Hashemi also mentioned that the launch is expected to take place within Iran but stressed that the success or failure of this mission is not the primary concern at this stage. “This is the first step we plan to take in this path, and it’s an opportunity to test ourselves,” he said.
Two Iranian Private Sector Satellites Sent to Russia for Launch
WANA (Oct 12) – The “Kosar” and “Hodhod” satellites, developed by a private Iranian tech-based company, were sent to Russia on October 11 for launch into Earth’s orbit. This marks the first major step by Iran’s private sector in space exploration, signalling the nation’s growing capabilities in this field. The “Kosar” satellite is […]
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