Iran Set to Unveil Upgraded Kowsar Satellite Launch in Upcoming Months

Iran is set to enhance its space technology capabilities with the anticipated launch of an advanced version of the ‘Kowsar’ satellite in the first half of the upcoming Iranian year, which commences on March 22, 2025. This exciting development was revealed by Hussein Shahraabi, the CEO of the Omid Space private company, during an exhibition highlighting the achievements of the private sector.

Shahraabi’s announcement comes on the heels of a successful launch of the Kowsar and Hodhod satellites, which took place on November 6 of this year using a Russian Soyuz rocket. Both satellites were developed to bolster precision agriculture, with Kowsar primarily focusing on remote sensing capabilities and Hodhod dedicated to Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

Here are some key points regarding the Kowsar and Hodhod satellites:

• Kowsar Satellite: A high-resolution sensing satellite weighing 30 kilograms, designed specifically for precision agriculture and environmental monitoring.
• Hodhod Satellite: A CubeSat aimed at improving IoT connectivity in remote areas.
• Orbital Parameters: Both satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of 500 kilometers.
• Indigenous Production: Over 85% of the components used in these satellites are produced domestically, showcasing Iran’s capability in satellite technology.

During his remarks, Shahraabi emphasized the significance of local production, stating, “Even if all parts were imported, the project would still be considered indigenous due to the local design and manufacturing processes.” He also acknowledged the challenges faced due to international sanctions but expressed confidence in overcoming these hurdles, saying, “Despite the obstacles, we have successfully overcome them.“

In addition to the Kowsar launch, Shahraabi announced plans for a hybrid version known as Kowsar 1.5, which is also expected to launch in the first half of the next Iranian year. Efforts are currently underway to attract investment to design and produce a constellation of these satellites, further enhancing Iran’s presence in the space sector.

Shahraabi also discussed the crucial role of the government in promoting the space industry. He noted, “The greatest service the government can provide is to guarantee the market for space services and pre-purchase these services.” This proactive approach could significantly stimulate growth in the private space sector.

Furthermore, he highlighted the need to mitigate technological risks within the knowledge-based sector, which he described as a vital responsibility of the government. Shahraabi called for the elimination of “unreasonable regulatory barriers,” expressing concern that “the insufficient understanding of the space industry by regulatory bodies has led to reduced confidence.“

In November 2024, Iran’s private space industry celebrated a significant achievement with the successful deployment of the Kowsar and Hodhod satellites. This launch marked a pivotal moment for the country, as it represented Iran’s inaugural steps into satellite production and the broader arena of space deployment.

The advancements in the Kowsar and Hodhod projects serve as a testament to Iran’s growing ambitions in space technology. The Kowsar satellite, with its impressive resolution capability of 3.45 meters, is set to make a substantial impact in the fields of precision agriculture and environmental monitoring. Its counterpart, the Hodhod CubeSat, aims to bridge connectivity gaps in remote regions through enhanced IoT capabilities.

As Iran continues to navigate the challenges posed by sanctions and regulatory hurdles, the focus remains on fostering the growth of its private space sector. Shahraabi’s vision for the future includes not only the successful launch of the Kowsar 1.5 satellite but also the establishment of a robust constellation of satellites that will serve a variety of applications.

In conclusion, the upcoming Kowsar satellite launch represents a significant milestone in Iran’s space exploration efforts. With a commitment to indigenous production and overcoming challenges, Iran is poised to make further advancements in the field of space technology, contributing to both national development and global scientific endeavors.