Iran Prepares Second Nahid-2 Satellite for Launch; Nahid-3 in Design Phase
WANA (Feb 02) – The second prototype of Iran’s Nahid-2 satellite is expected to reach “launch-ready” status within approximately one month, Iranian Space Agency (ISA) head Hassan Salarieh announced.
In an interview regarding the status of Iran’s communications and television broadcast satellites, Salarieh explained that these satellites, especially those used for TV broadcasting, typically operate in high-altitude geostationary orbits (around 36,000 km above Earth). He noted that Nahid-3 and the second prototype of Nahid-2 are currently on the agency’s development agenda.
Design Progress of Nahid-3
Salarieh stated that Nahid-3, developed under the Ministry of Communications and the Space Research Institute, is being designed specifically for high-altitude geostationary orbit. The design process began approximately a year ago and the satellite is currently in the design phase.
“Our initial focus for Nahid-3, as a high-altitude satellite, is to identify and develop the key technologies required for its operation,” Salarieh said. “Geostationary-class satellites involve complex systems, including transponders, specialized propulsion systems, attitude and orbital control systems, and ranging technology. All these systems are currently under design for Nahid-3.”
Status of the Second Nahid-2 Prototype
Regarding the second Nahid-2 satellite, Salarieh said the first prototype successfully reached orbit and underwent extensive testing. “Based on the results from the first prototype, modifications and subsystem updates are now being implemented in the second prototype,” he explained.
He added, “God willing, this satellite will be ready for launch within about a month. We are coordinating with the launch team to set and announce the final launch date.”
Results from Nahid-2’s First Prototype Tests
When asked whether the tests of the first Nahid-2 prototype were successful, Salarieh confirmed: “Yes, many satellite systems were successfully tested, though some subsystems required updates, which are now underway.”
He specifically noted that Ku-band communications on the first prototype were successful, enabling a functional telephone relay in this band. However, some adjustments remain necessary in the attitude control subsystems, which are actively being addressed.
Nahid 1 satellite is a telecommunication satellite. Social Media / WANA News Agency
