WANA (Sep 08) – Iran is preparing for a major expansion of its space program in 2026, with plans to launch approximately 20 satellites into orbit and participate in an international lunar research project with China.

 

Hassan Salarieh, Head of the Iranian Space Agency and Deputy Minister of Communications, outlined the country’s upcoming space initiatives in an extensive interview. He said that next year, Iran’s primary focus will be satellite launches, accompanied by continued development of ground infrastructure and international collaborations.

 

Satellite Constellation for Communications and IoT

Salarieh highlighted the “Martyr Soleimani” satellite constellation, launched under a contract finalized in 2023. The project involves creating a narrowband satellite network initially composed of around 20 satellites. These satellites, he explained, transmit small amounts of data quickly across Iran. “In emergency situations, the constellation can send low-volume messages even when ground infrastructure is unavailable,” he noted.

Upgraded Version of Kowsar Satellite

Upgraded Version of Kowsar Satellite. Social media/ WANA News Agency

The network also has applications for the Internet of Things (IoT), particularly in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure, such as pipelines, forests, and disaster-prone zones. Sensors installed in these regions can transmit environmental data to satellites, enabling real-time monitoring without the need for physical inspections or fiber-optic networks. Salarieh emphasized that narrowband satellites are lightweight, cost-effective, and capable of performing significant missions collectively.

 

Currently, the project is in the prototype phase. The first experimental satellite, “CU,” has been completed, and the “Sheshjosh” model will soon be launched. If tests are successful, full-scale satellite production is set to begin later this year.

 

Advances in Orbital Transfer Technology

Salarieh also provided updates on Iran’s “Saman” orbital transfer vehicles, which are used to move satellites from low Earth orbit to higher altitudes. The first solid-fuel Saman vehicle was launched last year, and a second version is now ready for deployment using the Simorgh rocket. The Saman 2 vehicle is in the preliminary design phase, with construction scheduled after testing the second launch.

Kowsar and Hodhod satellite preparation, Social media/ WANA News Agency

Kowsar and Hodhod satellite preparation, Social media/ WANA News Agency

He clarified concerns regarding the launch of the Nahid-2 satellite using a Russian Soyuz rocket. Due to its intended Sun-synchronous orbit, the satellite required a different launcher than the domestically produced Simorgh. Salarieh expressed confidence that once the Chabahar spaceport becomes fully operational, Iran will be able to place all its satellites into Sun-synchronous orbit using domestic rockets.

 

International Collaborations and Lunar Research

Iran is participating in international space programs, including NASA-led Artemis and the China-Russia-backed IRS initiatives. Under the Chang’e 8 program, Iran will send a lunar research payload via a Chinese launcher. Salarieh explained that the payload is designed to measure variations in the Moon’s electric potential—a critical factor for ensuring the proper function of equipment on the lunar surface.

 

Chabahar Spaceport and Ground Station Expansion

Salarieh reported that the Chabahar spaceport is nearly ready for its first launch. The facility will support the Qaim rocket family and provide access to a wide range of orbital inclinations, from 40 to over 100 degrees.

Iranian satellite system named Qaem is displayed during the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps(IRGC) Aerospace Force Museum in Tehran, Iran, November 15, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

To support satellite operations, Iran is expanding its ground station network. New facilities in the northeast and northwest regions are under construction, complementing existing stations in Mahdasht and Qeshm. These stations will accelerate satellite control and data reception and provide redundancy to ensure uninterrupted communications. Mobile ground stations are also planned for future deployment.

 

Future Satellite Development

Regarding the Khayyam satellite program, Salarieh noted that no immediate plans exist to produce additional satellites of this class, though studies for more advanced versions are ongoing.

 

Looking Ahead

With a focus on satellite deployment, international cooperation, and the development of ground and orbital infrastructure, Iran aims to strengthen both the technological and practical capabilities of its space program in 2026.

The “Simorgh” satellite carrier launched at an undisclosed location in Iran, in this handout image obtained on December 6, 2024. Iran’s Ministry of Defense/WANA (West Asia News Agency)