WANA (Feb 10) – Hassan Salarieh, head of Iran’s Space Organization, outlined the latest developments in domestic satellite launchers, including the Qaem 120, upgrades to the Simorgh launcher, and the status of the Qoqnus rocket.

 

Speaking about Iran’s indigenous launch programs, Salarieh said that this year Iran has conducted launches using the Qased, Simorgh, and Zoljanah launchers, primarily aimed at technology development.

 

“Our launch program is not complete; additional launches are planned. We are striving to carry out more domestic launches by the end of this year,” he said.

 

Development of the Qaem Launcher Family

Regarding solid-fuel satellite launchers, Salarieh explained that multiple parallel projects are underway. Following the development of Qaem 100, the Qaem 105 project is currently being pursued in cooperation with the Aerospace Force of the IRGC.

 

The Qaem 120 launcher is also in development. Compared to the original Qaem 100, it can carry heavier payloads to low Earth orbit (LEO) and potentially reach geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO). Several suborbital and test launches are planned in the near future.

 

Upgrades to Simorgh and Introduction of Qoqnus

On the Simorgh launcher, Salarieh said last year saw the first successful test of an upgraded version designed to place payloads into GTO. Further launches are planned to consolidate the launcher’s performance.

 

He also highlighted the development of the Qoqnus launcher, which is designed to carry heavier payloads to LEO.

 

Strategy for Geosynchronous Orbit

Salarieh outlined Iran’s strategy to reach geosynchronous orbit (36,000 km) using a combination of these powerful launchers with orbital transfer modules.

 

The launcher first delivers the satellite and transfer module to a parking or low orbit, after which the transfer module propels the payload to a higher orbit.

 

He noted that this program is being actively pursued in cooperation with Iran’s Ministry of Defense, Armed Forces Support Organization, and the IRGC Aerospace Force.

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)