In a significant Iran satellite launch failure, the country’s much-anticipated Payam satellite mission ended unsuccessfully when the satellite failed to reach orbit, despite clearing its initial flight stages. The attempted launch, one of at least two planned missions, has drawn sharp international criticism, particularly from the United States.

Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi confirmed on Iranian state television that while the satellite was successfully launched aboard the Basir satellite carrier, it failed to achieve orbit during the final stage.

"The Payam satellite was successfully launched this morning with the Basir satellite carrier. But the satellite, unfortunately, failed to be placed in orbit in the final stage," Jahromi stated.

The rocket reportedly cleared its first and second stages; however, it was unable to gain the “necessary speed” in the third stage, leading to the Iran satellite launch failure.

Uncertainty Over Doosti Satellite Launch

Iran had announced plans to launch two satellites—Payam (meaning “message” in Farsi) and Doosti (meaning “friendship”). With the failure of the Payam satellite, questions have arisen regarding the timeline for the Doosti satellite’s deployment. Minister Jahromi later wrote on Twitter, "Doosti is waiting for orbit," offering no further clarity.

This latest Iran satellite launch failure adds to a growing list of setbacks in Iran’s space programme, despite its ambitious goals and persistent efforts.

A ‘Civil’ Project Under Fire

Tehran has maintained that its satellite initiatives are purely civil and scientific in nature. However, the Iran satellite launch failure comes amid rising international concerns about Iran’s intentions and capabilities in missile and aerospace technology.

The United States, which withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal last year, has accused Iran of using satellite launches as a cover for testing ballistic missile technology. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned that Iran’s satellite plans defy United Nations Security Council resolutions.

"The United States will not stand by and watch the Iranian regime’s destructive policies place international stability and security at risk," Pompeo said in a statement issued on January 3, 2019.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed these concerns, stating that the “innocent satellite” was likely the first stage of an intercontinental missile—an allegation Iran firmly denies.

Iran’s Space Ambitions And International Backlash

Despite repeated satellite launch failures, Iran has remained committed to advancing its space ambitions. In 2013, the nation notably sent a monkey into space, demonstrating its ongoing interest in developing rocket and aerospace technologies.

Iran insists that such advancements do not violate international agreements. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif recently stated that Iran’s aerospace development is legal and within its sovereign rights.

Nonetheless, the Iran satellite launch failure involving Payam serves as a reminder of the technical hurdles Iran faces, as well as the geopolitical scrutiny surrounding its programmes.

Conclusion

The Iran satellite launch failure not only highlights technical limitations in Iran’s space ambitions but also intensifies the already strained geopolitical atmosphere. As the world watches for the fate of the Doosti satellite, Iran’s next move will be closely monitored by both allies and adversaries alike.

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