Iran unveils upgraded Kowsar-2 satellite

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran has unveiled the upgraded version of its domestically produced Kowsar satellite, with officials confirming plans to launch it into orbit in the coming months. 

The announcement was made in the presence of Hassan Salarieh, deputy minister and head of the Iranian Space Agency.

Salarieh said Kowsar-2, weighing 50 kilograms, has completed final testing and is designed to operate in a 500-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. 

The satellite will combine the functions of Kowsar-1 and Hodhod, with applications in remote sensing, the Internet of Things, precision agriculture, and mapping.

He noted that the new version includes significant upgrades in imaging and telecommunications payloads, as well as improved data management algorithms, reflecting technical advances achieved since the first mission. 

Salarieh added that the launch timing will depend on coordination with other payloads aboard the Soyuz rocket, but the target is to send Kowsar-2 into orbit this year.

Highlighting private-sector involvement, Salarieh stressed that Kowsar is Iran’s first observation satellite developed outside of state institutions. 

Omid-Faza Company led the project, taking on what he described as a “high-risk” but critical role in advancing the country’s space capabilities.

Under Iran’s 10-year space roadmap and the seventh development plan, Salarieh said multiple satellites will be developed with private-sector participation. 

He also noted that the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology will soon announce new tenders to expand opportunities for Iranian firms, offering both project handovers and guaranteed purchases to stimulate industry growth.