TEHRAN – Iran commemorated its Space Technology Day on Saturday with an inaugural ceremony attended by President Ebrahim Raisi, Minister of Information and Communications Technology Issa Zarepour, Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, and Iranian Space Agency head Hassan Salarieh.

The event marked a significant moment for Iran's aerospace industry, which took its first steps in 1959, coinciding with the country's membership in the United Nations. Soon after, a national remote sensing center was established in Tehran under the 'Human Use in Outer Space' program.

Iran's spacefaring journey has seen its share of challenges and triumphs. In 1977, Iranian experts embarked on a satellite launch program, but it was temporarily postponed. By 1986, however, their determination surpassed any obstacles, and Iran secured three orbital slots for its satellites through the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

As outlined in the Fourth National Development Plan, Iran aims to launch at least one satellite annually. Currently, the country holds three registered orbital positions (26, 34, and 47 degrees east).

The launch of the Omid satellite on February 2, 2009, marked a pivotal moment, earning the day its designation as National Aerospace Day. 

Nicknamed "hope," the Omid circles the Earth 15 times daily, transmitting data to Iranian ground stations.

Aerospace industry: a global engine of progress

The aerospace industry plays a vital role in the global economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and employing millions of people worldwide. This dynamic sector encompasses the design, manufacture, testing, sale, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, rockets, satellites, spacecraft, and their components. Its reach extends far beyond passenger travel and cargo transportation, contributing significantly to scientific exploration, engineering breakthroughs, and advancements in various commercial fields.

The 20th century witnessed a remarkable acceleration in both science and technology, with the aerospace industry at the forefront of this progress. This rapid development has not only transformed transportation but also significantly improved standards of living and provided diverse services to citizens through advancements in areas like telecommunications, navigation, and remote sensing.

The recent establishment of the United States Space Force (US SF) on December 20, 2019, further underlines the growing importance of space exploration and the need for dedicated resources. As the world's only independent space force, the US SF signifies a new era in military strategy and international cooperation in space exploration.

A glimpse into Iran's Aerospace industry

Iran successfully launched three satellites into space on the eve of the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. 

The launch carried out on January 28, marks the first time Iran has successfully deployed multiple satellites in a single mission, using its domestically developed Simorgh satellite carrier.

The satellites launched were Mahda, a microsatellite designed for testing satellite subsystems, and two nanosatellites named Keyhan2 and Hatef 1, one developed by SA IRAN company to demonstrate positioning technology for the space station, and the other to test narrowband communication technology using the Internet of Things.

The Simorgh satellite carrier, with two stages of liquid fuel, was built by the Iranian Ministry of Defense. This successful launch is the 11th in the Raisi administration and a testament to Iran's growing capabilities in space technology.

On January 20, the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) successfully launched its Sorayya satellite into a 750-kilometer orbit on Saturday morning.
 
The launch marks a significant milestone for Iran's aerospace capabilities and further demonstrates its growing ambitions in space technology.

The three-stage solid-fuel Qaem 100 satellite carrier, developed by the IRGC Aerospace Force, carried the Sorayya satellite into space. The satellite's successful placement in orbit has set a new record for Iran, as it represents the first time the country has launched a satellite into this altitude.

The successful launch of the Sorayya satellite is a testament to Iran's ongoing commitment to developing its space program and expanding its technological capabilities.