The launch, conducted by a Soyuz rocket from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia’s Far East, took off at 02:18 Moscow time (2318 GMT on Monday), as announced by Roscosmos, Russia’s national space agency.
Details of the Satellite Launch
According to AFP, the payload included 51 Russian satellites, one jointly developed by Russian and Chinese teams, and another Russian-Zimbabwean satellite, along with two privately manufactured Iranian satellites.
Roscosmos stated that this marked “a record number of Russian satellites simultaneously put into orbit,” highlighting the scale and ambition of the mission.
The two Iranian satellites, Koswar and Hodhod, were designed and built by Omid Faza Company, a private Iranian firm. These imaging and communication satellites are expected to assist with environmental monitoring and communications in remote areas, reflecting Iran’s growing space capabilities.
This launch marks the first time Russia has deployed privately constructed Iranian satellites, according to Iranian officials.
Growing ties between Russia and Iran
The satellite launch reflects deepening political, economic, and military cooperation between Moscow and Tehran, especially in the wake of Russia’s ongoing offensive in Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The strengthening relationship has attracted concern from Western nations, as both countries face increased scrutiny and sanctions over their roles in regional and international conflicts.
Inputs from AFP
