Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia — December 28, 2025
Russia successfully placed three Iranian satellites into orbit, marking a deepening partnership between Moscow and Tehran in space technology. The launch underscores Iran’s growing ambitions in satellite development and Russia’s role as a key enabler.
Key Developments:
• Launch Site: The satellites were launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in eastern Russia.
• Satellites: Named Paya, Kowsar, and Zafar-2, they are designed for communications and Earth observation.
• Technical Milestone.
• Paya weighs 150 kg, the heaviest satellite Iran has ever deployed.
• Kowsar weighs 35 kg.
• Zafar-2 adds to Iran’s imaging capabilities.
• Orbit: All three were placed in a 500 km orbit around Earth.
• Capabilities: They can capture images with up to 3-meter resolution, supporting agriculture, water resource management, and environmental monitoring.
Context & Implications:
• Strategic Cooperation: The launch highlights closer Russia–Iran ties, particularly in technology and defense.
• Regional Concerns: Western analysts warn of potential dual-use applications, including military surveillance.
• Symbolic Achievement: For Iran, deploying its heaviest satellite yet marks a major step in its space program.
(Source – AP News)
—Owned Sources
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