Iran says it despatched a capsule into orbit able to carrying animals because it prepares for human missions in coming years
ByThe Related Press
December 6, 2023, 3:00 AM
This photograph launched by the Iranian Protection Ministry on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, claims to indicate a rocket with a capsule carrying animals is launched from an undisclosed location into orbit, Iran. Iran stated Wednesday it despatched a capsule into orbit carrying animals because it prepares for human missions in coming years. (Iranian Protection Ministry by way of AP)
The Related Press
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran stated Wednesday it despatched a capsule into orbit able to carrying animals because it prepares for human missions in coming years.
A report by the official IRNA information company quoted Telecommunications Minister Isa Zarepour as saying the capsule was launched 130 kilometers (80 miles) into orbit.
Zarepour stated the launch of the 500-kilogram (1,000-pound) capsule is aimed toward sending Iranian astronauts to house in coming years. He didn’t say if any animals have been within the capsule.
He advised state TV that Iran plans to ship astronauts into house by 2029 after additional exams involving animals.
State TV confirmed footage of a rocket named Salman carrying the capsule.
Iran sometimes proclaims profitable launches of satellites and different spacecraft. In September, Iran stated it despatched a data-collecting satellite tv for pc into house. In 2013, Iran stated it despatched a monkey into house and returned it efficiently.
Studies stated the nation’s Protection Ministry constructed and launched the Salman rocket whereas the capsule was constructed by the Iranian civil house company. Media studies didn’t say the place the launch passed off. Iran normally makes launches from Imam Khomenei House Middle in northern Semnan province.
It says its satellite tv for pc program is for scientific analysis and different civilian functions. The U.S. and different Western international locations have lengthy been suspicious of this system as a result of the identical expertise can be utilized to develop long-range missiles.
In 2020, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard stated it put the Islamic Republic’s first army satellite tv for pc into orbit, unveiling what consultants described as a secret house program.