Iran is the first to launch a satellite-mounted rocket capable of reaching an altitude of 500 km using solid fuel.
The Iranian Ministry of Defense announced that it had successfully tested the rocket it had developed, and broadcast footage of the rocket launch through state-run TV.
The rocket launch took place during the day in a desert area in Iran, but the specific rocket launch area and time were not disclosed on the air.
The rocket launched this time is 25.5 meters long and weighs 52 tons, and did not launch a satellite into orbit, the Associated Press said.
The Iranian Ministry of Defense said, "The rocket launched this time can carry up to 10 satellites weighing 220 kg or smaller."
"It's the most powerful rocket engine in Iran's history and can also be propeled from a mobile launch pad," the Iranian Ministry of Defense said.
The Iranian government has insisted that the satellite launch plan is for scientific research and civil use, just like the US nuclear activity.
In response, the United States and Western countries have raised suspicion of Iran's intentions as satellite-launching technology could be diverted to long-range missiles.
(Photo = EPA, Yonhap News)