Iran Successfully Launches Nahid-2 Telecom Satellite on Russian Soyuz Rocket
Jul 26, 2025
Iran successfully launched its Nahid-2 telecommunications and research satellite into orbit on Friday aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket, marking a significant advancement in the country’s space capabilities.
The launch was part of a multi-payload mission that included Russia’s Unisphere-M3 and M4 satellites, along with 18 additional satellites from various countries, highlighting increasing international collaboration in the field of space technology.
Developed by the Iranian Space Agency, Nahid-2 is designed for a five-year mission. It is equipped with an indigenous propulsion system that enables it to adjust its orbital altitude by up to 50 kilometers—a feature crucial for maintaining stable positioning and ensuring consistent telecommunications coverage.
This mission continues a series of successful collaborations between Iran and Russia in satellite deployment. The Soyuz launch vehicle has previously carried several Iranian satellites into space, including Khayyam, Pars-1, Kosar, and Hodhod.
The successful deployment of Nahid-2 signals Iran’s growing capabilities in space-based communication and research, and its ongoing efforts to enhance self-reliance in satellite technology amidst international restrictions.