Iran said Tuesday had sent its first domestically produced satellite into orbit using an Iranian-made long distance calls within the missile, joining an exclusive club of fewer than a dozen nations with these properties. The Iranian launch was tracked by amateur and professional observers satellite from North America to Australia, while its importance was discussed by the military and intelligence analysts and arms control experts. Many agreed that Iran had reached a milestone only 10 other countries have launched satellites into orbit. Iran says it has launched two satellites, but with foreign assistance.
The country's space, missile technology and nuclear programs are a source of pride for Iran, but has long caused concern in the region and the western world, where leaders say the Iranian government is developing the ability to build and deliver nuclear weapons. Iran says the program is peaceful. While the satellite launch was not surprising - Iran issued its intentions years ago - the event was a jarring reminder of Iran's progress in the development of militarily useful technology.
Rocket used to launch the satellite was not the most advanced in the Iranian arsenal. Iran used the two-stage safir-2 - safir is a Persian term meaning "ambassador". The Sapphire is based on older Russian technology, although Iran claims to have improved the design of the sapphire-2, which was first tested in August and has a reported range of around 150 miles. In contrast, Iran's advanced Shahab-3 missile technology has a range of at least 750 miles, and Iran claims to have extended its reach further. At least, the Shahab-3 will allow Iran to find a goal in the entire Middle East, Turkey and south-eastern flank of Europe.
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