BICOM

Iran launched a satellite into earth orbit yesterday, in a feat that is likely to raise concerns among those who fear Iran’s intentions and nuclear development programme. The report, from Iranian state TV, said the locally produced satellite, called Rasad (observation), was launched successfully by a Safir missile. It is the second satellite Iran has put into orbit. The first, named Omid, was launched in 2009. Iran’s decade-long space programme has raised alarms in the West, because the same technology that allows missiles to launch satellites can be used to fire warheads.

Iran is showcasing its technological successes as signs it can advance despite the threat of US, European and UN sanctions over its nuclear programme. It is also pressing ahead with its military missile programme, frequently testing missiles capable of reaching Israel, US bases in the Gulf and parts of southeast Europe.

The new satellite is designed to produce high-resolution maps, which Iran has said it wants to use to monitor natural disasters in the earthquake-prone nation. Iranian officials also point to America’s use of satellites to monitor conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq and say they need similar capabilities for their security.