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Iran launches three domestically built observation satellites from Russia
Iran successfully launched three domestically designed observation satellites from Russia on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space program despite ongoing Western sanctions. The launch, conducted from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia’s Far East using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket, included a satellite equipped with artificial intelligence.
According to Iranian state media, the satellites—named Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar 1.5—were developed by the private sector and will be used for environmental monitoring, water resource management, and mapping. Paya, the heaviest at 150 kilograms, incorporates AI technology to enhance image resolution.
These satellites will orbit approximately 500 kilometers above Earth and are expected to remain operational for three to five years. Iran has conducted multiple launches in recent years, including a three-satellite launch in 2024 with its domestically produced Simorgh rocket. Officials emphasized that this mission remains peaceful and compliant with United Nations resolutions.
While Iran maintains that its space program is civilian, Western countries continue to express concerns that satellite launch technologies could be adapted for ballistic missile development. Tehran denies pursuing nuclear weapons and insists its space activities are for scientific and civilian purposes.