Iran took a significant step forward in its space ambitions with the launch of its latest research satellite, Chamran-1, into orbit. The satellite was successfully placed into a 550-kilometer orbit by the homegrown Ghaem-100 carrier rocket on Saturday (September 14, 2024), as reported by Iranian state media.
Chamran-1, which weighs around 60 kilograms, is primarily designed to test advanced hardware and software systems aimed at improving orbital manoeuvring capabilities.
Mission and Objective
Chamran-1’s mission focuses on validating critical technologies, such as hardware and software systems essential for orbital manoeuvring. Additionally, the satellite will evaluate the performance of cold gas propulsion subsystems and navigation and attitude control technologies.
These functions are crucial for the advancement of Iran’s aerospace capabilities. The satellite was developed by Iranian engineers from Iran Electronics Industries (SAIran), a subsidiary of the defense ministry, in collaboration with the Aerospace Research Institute and private sector firms.
Launch Vehicle: Ghaem-100
The Ghaem-100 rocket, which carried Chamran-1, is Iran’s first three-stage, solid-fuel satellite launcher. Developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Aerospace Force, the Ghaem-100 has previously been used to place satellites into orbits exceeding 500 kilometres. Its ability to launch satellites with precision into higher orbits marks a significant milestone in Iran’s space program.
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Growing Space Ambitions
The launch of Chamran-1 is part of Iran’s broader aerospace strategy, which has seen consistent advancements despite facing international sanctions and setbacks. Earlier this year, Iran’s telecommunications minister announced that the country had successfully conducted a dozen satellite launches in the past two years. Additionally, in February, Russia helped Iran place a remote-sensing satellite into orbit, further advancing its space capabilities.
The successful launch of Chamran-1 is expected to support future space missions by improving Iran’s expertise in satellite manoeuvring and overall space technology.
Source: Indian Express, Dawn, Aljazeera
