New Iranian satellite set for launch

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) – Preparations for the upgraded “Dual-View 1” satellite, Iran’s first hybrid remote sensing and communications satellite, have been completed, with plans underway to launch it into orbit in coming weeks.

Hossein Shahrabi, CEO of a knowledge-based company that has manufactured the satellite, told Tasnim news agency that it has been designed as a follow-up to Kowsar and Hodhod satellites, incorporating the combined missions of both.

He explained that Dual-View 1 is designed to function as Iran’s first integrated remote sensing and communications satellite within a planned constellation.

According to the CEO, the upgraded model features additional solar cells and improved communications hardware. From the three communications links used in Kowsar and Hodhod, the most effective have been integrated into the new satellite, along with the addition of an S-band link, enabling full ground-based attitude control programming, he added.

Shahrabi said Dual-View 1 is scheduled for launch in the Iranian month of Azar (November 22 – December 21) with the same launcher previously used for Kowsar and Hodhod.

Iran to launch solid-fuel space vehicles 

Iran is finalizing the first phase of the Chabahar Space Center, designed for solid-fuel launch vehicles, and is preparing for its inaugural launch, the head of the Iranian Space Agency said.

Hassan Salarieh highlighted the completion of the first phase of the Chabahar Space Center, which was specifically designed for solid-fuel launch vehicles.

The project is in its final stages, and preparations are ongoing for the first launch, he added, expressing hope that the second phase, intended for liquid-fuel satellite carriers, will soon be initiated.

He explained the agency’s satellite programs, stating that following the launches of Pars-1 and Nahid-2 and the assessment of their performance in orbit, the next iterations of these satellites are being prepared with necessary improvements.

Additionally, Pars-2, unveiled last year, is undergoing final tests ahead of its launch, Salarieh added. He also pointed to the development of more advanced and precise observational and communications satellites.

The Pars-3 satellite, with imaging accuracy better than one meter, has been under development since last year, showing significant progress, he stated.

According to Salarieh, the homegrown satellites play a crucial role in advancing Iran’s space industry and providing various practical services, with both government and private sectors actively involved in ongoing projects.