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Problems Plague Iran's Satellite Project

[Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University] Yiftah Shapir - On August 17, Iran announced the launching of an experimental satellite-carrying rocket - the Safir-e-Omid-1 ("Ambassador of Hope"). American defense sources claimed that they monitored the launch using the SPY-1 radar on the destroyer USS Russell, and that contrary to Iran's declarations, "the launch did not proceed as planned." According to them, while the first stage proceeded smoothly, the flight pattern of the second stage was "erratic." Despite the failure of the recent launch, Iran is progressing in the development of a liquid-fueled, two-stage satellite launcher. This launcher will enable it to launch a satellite weighing several dozen kilograms into space. The multi-stage technology may also have a large impact on the development of the capability to launch military grade surface-to-surface missiles. Such an ability could enable Iran to launch longer range missiles - up to several thousand kilometers - or to carry heavier loads. At present, however, Iran is still encountering numerous problems. At this point, the project is still little more than a hope for the future and an attempt to spark national pride.
2008-09-02 01:00:00
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