Iran defies western criticism with successful launch of Chamran-1 research satellite
Iran has launched its latest research satellite, Chamran-1, into orbit, marking another stride in the nation’s aerospace ambitions while defying ongoing Western criticism.
Iran has launched its latest research satellite, Chamran-1, into orbit, marking another stride in the nation’s aerospace ambitions while defying ongoing Western criticism. The state media announced the launch on Saturday, showcasing Iran’s growing technological capabilities despite international concerns over potential military applications.
Weighing 60kg (132 pounds), the Chamran-1 satellite is designed to “test hardware and software systems for demonstrating orbital maneuvering technology in height and phase,” according to official reports. The satellite was carried into space by the Ghaem-100 carrier, a three-stage, solid-fuel launcher developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
“It was put into orbit by the Ghaem-100 carrier,” state media confirmed, adding that the first signals from the satellite had been received.
This launch underscores Iran’s persistent efforts to advance its space program, despite warnings from Western governments, who have expressed concerns that such technology could be used for ballistic missiles. Western officials have long argued that the same systems used to launch satellites could be adapted to deliver nuclear warheads. However, Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, emphasizing that its aerospace initiatives are purely for civilian and defense purposes.
The timing of the launch adds another layer of complexity to Iran’s international relations. The United States and European countries have accused Tehran of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the Ukraine war, a claim Iran has denied.
Iran continues to defend its space program as peaceful, with state media asserting that its activities comply with United Nations Security Council resolutions. Nonetheless, the country’s space efforts have faced challenges, including several failed satellite launches in recent years. In January, Iranian media reported the successful launch of the Sorayya satellite into a 750km (465-mile) orbit, marking the highest altitude achieved by an Iranian satellite to date.
Iran’s aerospace advancements are taking place amid an ongoing economic struggle fueled by crippling Western sanctions. These sanctions, imposed primarily after the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal under former President Donald Trump, continue to affect Iran’s economy. Despite these pressures, Iran has managed to carry out at least a dozen satellite launches over the past two years, showcasing its determination to remain at the forefront of aerospace technology in the region.
