Iran announces multiple satellite launches to boost space independence
Tehran says new projects highlight growing domestic expertise and reduced reliance on foreign technology
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran has unveiled plans to launch several satellites in the coming months, marking a new phase in its efforts to strengthen its homegrown space program and expand independence from foreign systems.
Hassan Salarieh, head of the Iranian Space Agency (ISA) and deputy minister of communications, confirmed preparations for the launches of Zafar, Paya, an upgraded version of Kowsar, and experimental units of the Shahid Soleimani communications constellation.
According to Tehran Times, he also announced that the newly built Chabahar Space Center, also known as the Mahdi Space Center, is ready for its first launch.
Speaking during a lunar eclipse observation at Khayyam Observatory, Salarieh highlighted progress made in the first half of the year, stressing that new facilities in Chabahar, Salmas, and Chenaran will give Iran greater capacity to control satellites and analyze data domestically. He said the first launch from Chabahar would take place “very soon.”
Among the upcoming missions, the upgraded Kowsar satellite—unveiled during Government Week and developed by private-sector companies—will enhance Iran’s remote-sensing abilities, especially in agriculture and land management.
The Zafar satellite, designed with the Iran University of Science and Technology, will provide high-resolution earth observation for environmental monitoring and disaster response, while Paya will support agricultural mapping.
The Shahid Soleimani constellation, still in its trial stage, represents Iran’s first step toward building a communications satellite network. Salarieh said initial experimental units would be tested before the end of the year.
He added that despite possible adjustments in timelines, the ISA is confident “at least several of these launches will be completed before year’s end.” Salarieh emphasized that most of the projects rely on domestic knowledge and the contributions of Iran’s growing network of technology-based firms.
Alongside national programs, Iran is participating in the Chinese-led Chang’e-8 lunar mission, which Salarieh described as a “major achievement” offering access to advanced research and reinforcing Iran’s position in international space science.
Iran is also advancing the design of new bio-space capsules with upgraded control and guidance systems, aimed at expanding capabilities in space medicine and biological studies.
Salarieh framed the upcoming launches as a sign of national resilience, noting that building an integrated satellite network for communications, observation, and strategic applications remains a top priority despite technical challenges.
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