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Iran-Russia Satellite Launch
Two Iranian satellites, Kowsar and Hodhod, were successfully launched into orbit by a Russian Soyuz-2.1 rocket, highlighting growing cooperation between the two nations amidst geopolitical tensions.
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United States
PoliticsInternational RelationsTechnologyMiddle EastMilitary TechnologySpaceSatellite
RoscosmosOmidfazaIrnaRevolutionary Guard Corps (Irgc)Associated Press
Masoud Pezeshkian
- How and where were the satellites launched?
- The satellites were launched by a Russian Soyuz-2.1 spacecraft from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in far eastern Russia. The launch included two Russian Ionosfera-M satellites and 53 small satellites in total.
- What is the geopolitical significance of this launch?
- The launch reflects the growing cooperation between Russia and Iran, despite criticism from Ukraine and the West regarding Iran supplying drones to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict.
- What are the key features of the Iranian satellites launched?
- The Kowsar is a high-resolution imaging satellite with a three-year lifespan, while the Hodhod is a small communications satellite designed to operate for four years.
- What is notable about the involvement of the Iranian private sector?
- The Kowsar was manufactured by the Iranian private company Omidfaza, marking the first such launch on behalf of Iran's private sector. This follows previous Iranian satellite launches using Russian rockets and a history of failed Iranian launches.
- What is the broader context of this launch in terms of Russia-Iran relations?
- The launch comes amid discussions of a "comprehensive strategic partnership" between Russia and Iran, to be further solidified by an upcoming visit from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Russia.