Iran’s Nahid-2’s Main Payload Undergoing In-Orbit Testing

WANA (Sep 27) – The main payload of Iran’s Nahid-2 satellite, launched in August, is currently undergoing in-orbit testing. This payload plays a key role in enabling satellite communications.

Hassan Salarieh, head of the Iranian Space Agency, provided an update on the Nahid-2 satellite’s status, saying: “The satellite has been launched and is now in the orbital testing phase. Most of the subsystems have been activated, and the most important payload — the Ku-band communication subsystem — is currently undergoing tests. This system enables higher bandwidth communications than previous systems.”

Salarieh noted that the majority of the tests on this subsystem have already been conducted, with only a few remaining issues. He added that attitude control and satellite stabilisation are also in progress.

“Rotational stabilization has been completed, and the satellite is now undergoing precision pointing tests to ensure it can focus on a specific location on Earth.”

Second Model Under Modification

The head of the Iranian Space Agency also referred to the continuation of the project’s development: “A second model of the satellite has already been built, and the necessary modifications are currently being applied based on the results from the first model’s tests. Once this process is complete, launching the second model will be on the agenda.”

He emphasised that while many of the tests have been successful, some have revealed flaws: “We hope the testing process will be completed soon. The feedback from the first model will be implemented in the second, so that the next launch can be carried out with greater precision and improvements.”

Salarieh also underlined the importance of repetition in achieving technological reliability: “Technology validation always requires iteration. Even after the second launch, the process of testing and refinement must continue. Still, we expect that the majority of our targeted technologies will be tested and stabilized in these first two launches. That said, we should avoid excessive optimism and must also continue with planning for future launches and replacements.”

Ku-Band: A Vital Communication Link

The Ku-band subsystem is a critical part of the satellite, responsible for enabling communication between the satellite and ground stations. Operating in the 12 to 18 GHz frequency range, it allows for the transmission of  data, voice, internet, and even television broadcasting.

This band is known for its high data transfer speeds, smaller antenna requirements, and focused regional coverage, making it essential for applications such as satellite television, satellite internet, private networks, and scientific missions.

“In simple terms, this subsystem acts as a bridge between space and Earth, enabling fast and precise data exchange,” Salarieh concluded.

Nahid 1 satellite is a telecommunication satellite. Social Media / WANA News Agency