Rasad-1 Iran's Earth Observation Second Satellite

© C. P. Vick 2010 All Rights Reserved

09-01-10

Rasad-1 Imaging Satellite ( Iran space Earth Observation)

The planned Rasad-1 (Observation) earth imaging meteorological satellite has had its launch delayed from the last week of August 2010 into at least September 2010 but before March 2011. The repeatedly delayed second satellite launch is this time due to the end to end systems compatibility testing leading up to the launch process. That is the testing of the launch infrastructure, the launch vehicle and spacecraft, the range control through launch preparation demonstration. It is apparent that the spacecraft is delayed while still being developed. Its launch has been delayed to the second half of the present Iranian calendar year which starts September 23, 2010 very different from the rest of the world’s calendar.

Iran early in 2010 both displayed and announced plan to launch three named satellites Mesbah-2 [Lantern], Tolou [ Sunrise or Dawn], and Mehr Navid–e-Elm-0-Sanat (Good News and or Promising Sign) they have now added on June 8, 2010 the Rasad-1 satellite. The second Iranian satellite launch utilizing the Rasad-1 satellite is presently planned for launch during the period of August 24-31, 2010 , according to Reze Taiqpour the Telecommunications and Information Technology, Minister. That is during the so called “Government Week” according to this regime celebration. All of the expected 5-6 satellites are supposed to be launch before the end of March 2011 specifically before March 21, 2011 . Iran ’s first satellite launch was February 2, 2009 with the satellite Omid (Hope).

The Rasad-1 satellite is an experimental observation satellite based on the information received with further detailed announcement on it and other satellites planned for launch is expected soon.

Early in 2010 Iran ’s Minister of Communications, Reza Taghipour indicated that Iran is now planning to launch three new satellites of five or six domestically built satellites then under construction to be launched over the next two years. The first launch is expected before March 21, 2011 the Iranian new years and may come before the end of 2010.

Rasad-1 [Observation] the Rasad-1 satellite is an experimental observation satellite capable of transmitting images and data.