ISA bracing for maiden launch at new Chabahar solid-fuel spaceport
Iran is preparing for an inaugural launch at its new Chabahar spaceport for solid-fuel launchers, the head of the Iranian Space Agency (ISA) said, while planning a second phase for liquid-fuel rockets capable of carrying heavier satellites.
“The first phase of the Chabahar base, dedicated to solid-fuel launchers, is nearing completion, and we are currently preparing for the first launch,” Hassan Salarieh said, highlighting the project as a key initiative within the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the space agency, Tasnim reported.
He expressed hope that the second phase of the base, designed for liquid-fuel launchers, would soon be opened. “Liquid-fuel launchers can carry larger payloads and will be used for heavier satellites and multiple launches,” he said.
Salarieh emphasized the base’s strategic location in southeast, saying it “can easily access orbits with inclinations from about 40 to 100 degrees, essential for building satellite constellations and placing satellites in sun-synchronous orbits.”
Speaking Saturday at the opening of World Space Week under the theme “Life in Space,” Salarieh outlined the agency’s main programs, focusing on research centers and universities.
Among the initiatives, he cited the development of biological capsules and recoverable research platforms with precise guidance and control. These serve as space laboratories for conducting suborbital and orbital experiments on radiation effects, temperature and pressure variations, and other impacts on various life forms.
“After the 500-kilogram recoverable capsule launch in 2023, research and development of new capsules began, and we have made significant progress in designing and constructing a new family of these important research platforms. Various subsystem tests will begin soon,” he said.
Collaboration with China
Salarieh also highlighted Iran’s participation in interplanetary research programs, including a collaboration with China on the “Chang 8” lunar project. “Design is complete, and construction of the engineering model will begin soon. These collaborations will play an important role in the economy and utilization of valuable natural resources in the outer space,” he said, noting that advanced countries are increasingly focusing on extracting energy and mineral resources from other celestial bodies.
He added that negotiations are underway with leading countries on participating in space station design and construction programs, providing Iranian scientists with opportunities for biological space research.