Iran successfully launched a satellite into space on Saturday using a rocket built by the Revolutionary Guard, as reported by state-run media. This launch marks the second time Iran has put a satellite into orbit with this rocket, named Qaem-100, after a previous successful launch in January. The satellite, named Chamran-1, weighing 60 kilograms, was placed in a 550-kilometer orbit by the three-stage rocket.
The rocket launch was described as a success by Iran, with footage showing the rocket taking off from a mobile launcher at the Guard’s launch pad near Shahroud. The rocket featured a Quranic verse inscribed on it. The launch is part of a program that the West believes could advance Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, raising concerns among nonproliferation experts.
Gen. Hossein Salami, the head of the Guard, lauded the successful launch and highlighted the achievement in overcoming international sanctions. The U.S. State Department and military had no immediate comments on the launch. The United States had previously denounced Iran’s satellite launches as defying a U.N. Security Council resolution.
Under President Ebrahim Raisi, Iran has accelerated its space program, unlike the more cautious approach taken during the tenure of former President Hassan Rouhani. The U.S. intelligence community has expressed concerns that Iran’s development of satellite launch vehicles could potentially shorten the timeline for the country to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Iran has consistently denied allegations of seeking nuclear weapons, asserting that its space and nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes. However, the country’s increased uranium enrichment levels and its space program advancements have raised international concerns about its intentions. The satellite launch also coincided with the anniversary of protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, which sparked demonstrations against Iran’s mandatory hijab law and its Shiite theocracy.
The new Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has not made his stance clear on the country’s space program. The program has faced scrutiny due to its potential military significance and implications.
