Iran Carries Out 2nd Successful Test-Launch of Homegrown Carrier Rocket - Video

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Iran has successfully test-launched the domestically-produced civilian satellite carrier Zoljanah powered by a compound-fuel engine, state media reported on Sunday, citing the defense ministry's space department.

The IRNA news agency said, citing department spokesman Ahmad Hosseini, that the second launch, like the first, was for science purposes.

The launch vehicle has three stages, two of which are powered by solid fuel and one by liquid. Designed to launch satellites into orbit, it was first tested in February 2021.

#Iran’s Defense Ministry spokesman says that the country has carried out the 2nd launch of satellite carrier Zuljanah, saying that the launch is a sub-orbital one and has predetermined research aims. The three-stage carrier has 2 stages of solid propulsion & a single liquid one. pic.twitter.com/15TcDbMgcZ

— Abas Aslani (@AbasAslani) June 26, 2022

Iran started its space program in the early 2000s, using the Shahab-4 surface-to-air missile as a base for creating its own satellite launcher. In 2009, the Semnan launch pad was built in the country's north.

Iran had its space program suspended between 2015 and 2017 due to high costs. Two civilian test-launches in 2019 were unsuccessful, but the Iranian military succeeded in launching two satellites into orbit in 2020 and March 2022.

Iran's space program has been a source of concern for the United States and its allies for several years. The US, Germany and France have repeatedly condemned Iran for military buildup and undermining the foundations of the 2015 nuclear deal.