Tehran fails to put new scientific observation satellite into orbit

The Simorgh launcher successfully propelled the Zafar satellite, but did not reach the speed necessary to put it in the desired orbit (here, the launcher, July 27, 2017 on a site not disclosed by Tehran). IRANIAN DEFENSE MINISTRY / AFP

Text by: RFI Follow

Iran has claimed to have successfully launched a new scientific observation satellite which has reached an altitude of 540 kilometers. But according to the spokesman for the Iranian space organization, the satellite could not continue its journey due to a technical program.

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With our correspondent in Tehran, Siavosh Ghazi

The Simorgh launcher reached an altitude of 540 kilometers, but the Zafar satellite could not be put into orbit due to insufficient speed, according to the Minister of Telecommunications. The satellite fell into the Indian Ocean. Mohammad Javad Azari Jahroomi added that another satellite will be launched in five months.

Iran has prepared four observation satellites to be launched over the next twelve months. With these launches, the Iranian space program takes on a new speed, especially since Tehran is preparing launchers capable of reaching an altitude of 36,000 kilometers.

Iran's space program is criticized by Westerners who accuse Tehran of seeking to develop its ballistic program using its satellite launchers.

Earlier in the day, the leader of the Revolutionary Guards unveiled a new satellite launcher motor along with a new missile with a range of 500 kilometers.

Despite Western criticism and tensions with the United States after the missile strikes against an American base in Iraq, Tehran seems determined to continue its ballistic and space programs.

Read also: Iran shows muscles before the anniversary of its revolution

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  • Iran
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