Iran successfully launched a satellite into space using a rocket built by the Revolutionary Guard, raising concerns about the country’s ballistic missile program. The launch, described as a success by Iran, marked the second time a satellite was put into orbit with the rocket. However, independent confirmation of the success was not immediately available.
The rocket, named Qaem-100, carried the Chamran-1 satellite into a 550-kilometer orbit. The launch took place at the Guard’s launch pad in Shahroud, east of Tehran. The satellite was built to test hardware and software systems for orbital maneuver technology validation.
Despite international sanctions and criticism from the U.S., Iran’s space program has continued to advance under President Ebrahim Raisi. The launch comes amidst tensions in the Middle East and Iran’s uranium enrichment activities, raising concerns about its nuclear capabilities.
Amidst political changes in Iran, the future of the space program remains uncertain. The U.S. intelligence community warned that Iran’s satellite launch vehicles could aid in the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, potentially carrying nuclear weapons.
Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, attributing its space program to civilian purposes. The launch coincided with the anniversary of a protest against Iran’s mandatory headscarf law, highlighting ongoing tensions within the country.
© Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
[ad_2]
Source link