TEHRAN – Iran is planning to launch several light satellites belonging to the Shahid Soleimani Satellite Constellation into space this year, according to Sattar Hashemi’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Hashemi confirmed the continued development of the constellations and said that he will gradually reach full operational capacity through a series of phased launches. “A lot of light satellites from Shahid Soleimani Constellation will be sent into orbit this year,” he said.
Shahid Soleimani Constellation is a key project of Iran’s space programme, aimed at strengthening capabilities in communication, observation and other important areas. The minister emphasized that the current administration under President Pezeshkian has placed a top priority on launches that serve a specific purpose and provide concrete benefits to the Iranian masses.
Hashemi further details that the development of various elements of the constellations is being led by the Iranian Space Agency and the Space Research Institute. These agencies are committed to ensuring that satellites meet the required specifications and performance standards.
“The launch is planned for both domestic and foreign launchers,” Hashemmi points out, suggesting a joint approach to achieving Iran’s space ambitions. No details have been made available to potentially involve foreign launchers.