(VIDEO) Iran Successfully Launches Chamran-1 Research Satellite Using Qaem-100 Rocket
(VIDEO) As usual, Iran's satellite launch has raised concerns among several Western countries, particularly the United States, which views Iran's space program as a mere cover for Tehran's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) development efforts.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Iran has successfully launched its research satellite “Chamran-1” into orbit using the “Qaem-100” rocket developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to state media reports.
The satellite launch marks a historic milestone for Iran, particularly for its space program, but has drawn heavy criticism from the international community, which claims it could be linked to the development of ballistic missiles.
The Chamran-1 research satellite, weighing 60kg, was placed into an orbit 550km from Earth and is designed to test systems for orbital maneuvering technology, Iranian media reported.
Initial signals received by the ground control center shortly after launch indicated that the mission was successful.
Meanwhile, the Qaem-100 rocket, which uses solid fuel, was also employed for the launch of another satellite earlier in January.
According to Iranian media, the Chamran-1 satellite was launched from Shahroud, located about 350km east of Tehran.
The launch comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly due to the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel, which will soon mark its first anniversary.
As usual, Iran’s satellite launch has raised concerns among several Western nations, especially the United States, which views Iran’s space program as a cover for the country’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) development efforts.
ICBMs are ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear and conventional warheads over distances exceeding 5,500km.
Currently, only countries such as the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain, and North Korea possess ICBMs equipped with nuclear warheads.
Although Pakistan has nuclear weapons, it is not known if the South Asian nation has ICBM capabilities.
Senior U.S. officials have stated that Iran’s space program could provide the country with the opportunity to further enhance its missile capabilities to the point where they could be equipped with nuclear warheads.
Despite the skepticism from Western countries, particularly Washington, Tehran continues to deny that its space program aims to circumvent international sanctions imposed on it.
Iran insists that its nuclear and space technology programs are intended solely for peaceful purposes. — DSA
