Iran Russia Satellite Launch
Iran has sent two ‘locally’ made satellites to Russia to be put into orbit by a Russian space vehicle,. That’s according to the semi-official news agency Tasnim. Tasnim reported on Saturday, on the development in the latest space cooperation between the two U.S.-sanctioned countries. The development of Kowsar, a high-resolution imaging satellite, and Hodhod, a small communications satellite, is the first substantial effort by Iran’s private space sector, the report said.
Russia-Iran Space Ties
Russia sent Iranian satellites into orbit in February 2024 and 2022. That’s when U.S. officials voiced concern over space cooperation between the two countries. The U.S. feared the satellite would not only help Russia in Ukraine but also help Iran monitor potential military targets in Israel and the wider West Asia.
Kowsar & Hodhod
Agriculture, natural resource management, environmental monitoring, and disaster management can utilize the satellite Kowsar. State media Tasnim also reported that Hodhod is designed for satellite-based communications. It can also serve remote areas with limited access to terrestrial networks.
In September, Iran launched its second satellite this year using a rocket that its Islamic Revolutionary Guards built. On Friday, October 11, Tasnim, reports, sent the satellites Kowsar and Hodhod to Russia for launch into Earth’s orbit. (If and when) the launch occurs, it will mark a major milestone in the history of Iran’s space industry.
India & Iran
USA Should Be Wise Not To Impose Sanctions On India: Iran Envoy Says on Chabahar.
(With Inputs from Reuters & Tasnim News Agency)
