Iran set to launch private-sector developed satellites

Iran's Space Agency chief announced plans to launch two privately developed satellites soon.

Hassan Salarieh stated that the Kowsar and Hodhod satellites will advance Iran's civil space program, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

This year is anticipated to be productive for Iranian satellite launches, especially those from the private sector.

"The Kowsar satellite, designed for sensing, has finalized an imagery purchase contract," Salarieh noted, emphasizing this move's importance in supporting private sector space initiatives.

The Hodhod satellite, with roles in research and communication, will launch concurrently with Kowsar. Specific launch dates for these satellites will follow shortly.

Salarieh also mentioned several other private-sector satellites scheduled for launch this Iranian year.

Earlier, Iran successfully launched the indigenous Mahda research satellite and two research payloads using the Simorgh satellite launch vehicle (SLV). Mahda, weighing 32 kilograms, tests satellite subsystems and assesses new designs and technologies in space.

Previously, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Aerospace Force deployed the Soraya satellite into a 750-kilometer orbit within 11 minutes using the Qaem-100 SLV.