Iran Launches Noor 3 Military Satellite

September 29, 2023

Iran has successfully placed its third military satellite, Noor 3, into orbit. The launch was carried out by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards using a three-stage Qasem rocket on September 27, 2023. The satellite’s mission marks another significant step in Iran’s space endeavors.

Satellite Catalogued by U.S. Space Force

The U.S. Space Force has independently confirmed the satellite’s presence in orbit by cataloging two objects, which are likely the satellite and the upper stage of the rocket. These objects are positioned approximately 280 miles (450 kilometers) above the Earth’s surface.

Noor 3: An Imaging Satellite

Noor 3 is classified as an imaging satellite. This designation indicates that the satellite is equipped with imaging technology for capturing high-resolution images of Earth’s surface. Notably, Noor 1 and Noor 2, the satellite’s predecessors, were also launched aboard Qased rockets in April 2020 and March 2022, respectively.

Noor 2 Still Operational

While Noor 1 re-entered Earth’s atmosphere in April 2022, Noor 2 remains operational. There is speculation that Noor 3 may collaborate with Noor 2 once it becomes operational. Both satellites are currently in a similar orbital plane, suggesting the possibility of coordinated activities. The Noor 3 was launched to the current altitude of Noor 2. In contrast, when Noor 2 was launched, Noor 1 was already on its way to re-entry.

Dual Purpose: Satellite Launches and Concerns

Iran’s satellite launch activities draw international attention because the technology used in these missions closely resembles that of long-range missiles capable of delivering weapons, including nuclear warheads. Iran maintains that its satellite launches serve peaceful purposes exclusively.

While Iran is not confirmed to possess nuclear weapons, it possesses sufficient highly enriched uranium to potentially manufacture a limited number of atomic bombs, according to the United Nations.

The U.S. and its allies have imposed sanctions on Iran since the 1979 revolution, which led to the establishment of a theocratic regime. Recently, the Biden administration imposed a fresh round of sanctions, targeting individuals and entities in Iran, Russia, China, and Turkey, citing connections to Tehran’s drone and military aircraft development.

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