Iran Launches Heaviest Payload into Space

Iran successfully launched its heaviest payload to date, weighing 300 kilograms, which includes the Fakhr-1 telecommunications satellite and the Saman-1 space tug, using the domestically developed Simorgh rocket. This launch marks a significant milestone in Iran's space program, with the Saman-1 designed to facilitate the transfer of satellites to higher orbits. The launch took place amid allegations from the U.S. and European nations that Iran is transferring ballistic missile technology to Russia, claims which Iran denies, asserting its space initiatives are for civil purposes. The mission also represents ongoing cooperation between Iran and Russia in military and technological fields. This follows previous successful missions, including the launch of the Chamran-1 research satellite in September. Iran's advancements have drawn criticism from Western nations concerned about the potential dual-use of space technology for military applications.