WANA (Jul 15) – Iran’s space program is preparing for a major milestone with the upcoming deployment of its first narrow-band satellite constellation, named the “Martyr Soleimani” project, according to Hassan Salariyeh, the head of the Iranian Space Agency (ISA).

 

Speaking on the development of the project, Salariyeh outlined that the first phase of the constellation will consist of 24 satellites, including 18 primary satellites and 6 backups designated for orbital deployment.

 

“One of the most significant milestones of 2025/2026 was the unveiling of the first prototype of this satellite,” Salariyeh said. “The unveiling took place on February 3 [2026], marking National Space Technology Day, in the presence of the Minister of Communications and the late Minister of Defense.”

 

According to the ISA chief, the design and manufacturing of the major subsystems for the constellation have been completed, and technicians are currently assembling the remaining satellites. The launches are slated to be integrated into the space program’s agenda for [the Iranian calendar year] 1405 (2026/2027) once the designated launch vehicles are fully prepared.

 

Mastering Multiple Satellite Insertion

While the precise launch schedule is still being finalized, Salariyeh emphasized that a primary technical objective for the upcoming year is perfecting the country’s multiple-satellite orbital insertion technology.

 

“Since these satellites will be placed into orbit as a group, one of the most critical achievements we hope our domestic space industry will solidify in 2026 is the stabilization of multiple-injection technology,” Salariyeh stated.

 

The ISA head noted that Iran has accumulated successful experience in this field, pointing to successful multiple-satellite orbital insertion operations conducted between 2022 and 2024.

 

“However, what holds particular importance for the Martyr Soleimani constellation project is the simultaneous injection of three satellites into orbit using a single launcher—a milestone we have officially scheduled in our space program calendar for 2026/ 2027,” he said.

 

Overview of Key Projects Underway at the Iranian Space Agency

Elaborating on other major initiatives, Salariyeh stated that the projects currently being pursued by the ISA are divided into several core categories: infrastructural projects, satellite and launch vehicle design and manufacturing, and satellite data and imagery-based service projects.

 

“These projects encompass areas such as satellite control centers, launch sites, specialized laboratories, and satellite assembly and testing integration centers,” the ISA chief explained. He noted that several key launches took place last year, the most significant of which was the launch of the Ministry of Communications’ first telecommunication satellite.

 

“An upgraded version of this satellite, Nahid-2, is currently in the design and manufacturing phase at the Iranian Space Research Center (ISRC), and its development will continue throughout 2026/2027,” Salariyeh added. Furthermore, the design and manufacturing of a new satellite capable of providing constellation and group services has commenced at the ISRC, making it one of the most vital space initiatives for the Ministry of Communications and the country’s space industry.

 

Pars-2 and Rad-1 Satellites Next in Line for Launch

Reflecting on recent achievements, Salariyeh remarked: “Last year, the triple launch of the Zafar-2, Paya, and Kousar satellites, along with the unveiling of indigenous satellite imagery, marked a new chapter of collaboration among universities, the government, and the private sector in Iran’s space industry.

 

These developments demonstrate the country’s technical maturity in manufacturing and utilizing remote-sensing satellites.”

 

He noted that the space agenda for 2026/2027 is heavily focused on preparing for the launch of the Pars-2 satellite (featuring an imaging resolution of better than three meters) and efforts to unveil Iran’s first radar imaging satellite, Rad-1.

 

“Increasing the number of satellites in orbit remains a strategic priority,” Salariyeh emphasized. “By reducing revisit times for capturing imagery, we aim to provide vital macro-management and smart decision-making tools for various public and government sectors.”

 

He also pointed out that the development of next-generation, forward-looking satellites like Pars-3 and Rad-2, alongside the active participation of the private sector in building lighter micro and nano-class satellites (such as Kowsar), reflects a comprehensive roadmap to diversify Iran’s space products.

 

Iran’s Three-Stage Roadmap to Geostationary Orbit (36,000 km)

When asked about reaching Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) at an altitude of 36,000 kilometers, the ISA head outlined a clear three-stage roadmap:

 

Step 1: Developing satellites like Nahid-3, which are equipped with highly complex high-altitude control, communication, and positioning technologies.

 

Step 2: Designing and manufacturing liquid-fueled, and eventually cryogenic-fueled, orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs). These space tugs will not only be responsible for transferring satellites to GEO but will also serve as the country’s primary infrastructure for constellation deployment and multi-satellite launches.

 

Step 3: Developing heavy launch vehicles such as Ghaem-120 and Simorgh (Phoenix), which are required to place the satellite and its orbital transfer block into parking orbit to complete the transfer process to higher altitudes.

 

“Due to a precise division of labor between the Ministry of Communications and the Aerospace Industries Organization, these three sectors are progressing in parallel,” Salariyeh explained. “The ultimate goal of this infrastructure is to pave the way for Iran’s entry into the exclusive club of countries possessing space constellations—a domain currently dominated by the US, China, Russia, and 11 other key global players.”

 

Salariyeh concluded by highlighting that the most significant shift in Iran’s 10-year space plan is its strong orientation toward active private sector participation. This approach aims to reduce the costs of space products and services, foster competition, utilize advanced technologies such as cryogenic fuels, and expand international cooperation, ultimately making the country’s space industry commercially viable.