Iran's IRGC launches first military satellite into orbit
Yusef Jalali
Press TV, Tehran
Iran has put into orbit its first military satellite. Launched by Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps on Wednesday, the satellite was "successfully placed into orbit" at an altitude of 425 kilometers.
Called Noor or Light, it was shot into space using an indigenous two-phased satellite carrier dubbed Qased or Messenger.
The IRGC says the satellite was designed and built from A to Z by domestic know-how. It says the new satellite is a multi-purpose one and also serves civilian purposes.
Iran has been trying to build up its aerospace technology amid the toughest US-led sanctions, which prevent Tehran from getting its hands on any space-related equipment. The IRGC says it will continue to expand its space industry with or without sanctions.
Iran stepped into the realm of space technology less than two decades ago. In 2009, the country launched into orbit its first ever indigenous satellite called Omid or Hope. The successful project opened the door for Iran to capitalize more seriously on the cutting edge industry. In 2010, the country launched its first bio-capsule containing living creatures.
But no progress comes without failures. In February this year, Iran attempted to put into orbit a communications satellite called Zafar, but it failed to reach the designated orbit.
While the US sanctions have been a threat in many senses, such as in the health sector, in areas such as aerospace, Tehran views the sanctions as an opportunity to build up its domestic capabilities. The first military satellite is a case in point.
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