Iran plans to launch three remote-sensing satellites into orbit

The head of the Iranian Space Agency (ISA), Hassan Salariyeh, announced plans to launch three domestically developed remote-sensing satellites into orbit by the end of the current Iranian calendar year, which concludes on March 20, 2025.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of World Space Week in Tehran on October 5, Salariyeh detailed that the satellites—Kowsar, Tolo-3 (Sunrise-3), and Zafar-2 (Victory-2)—are intended to work together as a constellation for Earth observation, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

Earlier this year, Iran successfully launched the Chamran-1 satellite, and Salariyeh emphasized that the Saman orbital transfer block remains a top priority for the ISA. He also highlighted an upcoming test launch of an Internet of Things (IoT) satellite system, developed in collaboration with the private sector. This satellite system aims to facilitate data transmission and reception to enhance decision-making during disasters, particularly in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is compromised.

Since launching its first domestically produced satellite, Omid (Hope), in February 2009, Iran has established itself as a key player in the global space race. Salariyeh noted that after nearly two decades of progress, Iran is now capable of manufacturing various communications and remote-sensing satellites equipped with advanced technologies and improved precision.

Despite facing sanctions from Western countries, Iran has made significant advancements in its civilian space program, positioning itself among the world’s top ten nations with the capability to develop and launch satellites.

The recent successful launch of the Chamran-1 research satellite on September 14 further underscores Iran's progress in this field. The satellite, weighing approximately 60 kilograms, was deployed into orbit at an altitude of 550 kilometers (341 miles) using the homegrown Qaem-100 space launch vehicle. 

The Chamran-1 satellite is primarily designed to test hardware and software systems for validating orbital manoeuvre technology, marking another milestone in Iran’s expanding space capabilities.

By Khagan Isayev