Iran simultaneously launched three satellites for the first time on Sunday using the Simorgh (Phoenix) satellite carrier rocket developed by the Ministry of Defence, state media reported.
One satellite weighing 32 kg and two nano-satellites of less than 10 kg each were sent to a minimum orbit of 450 km, with the two smaller devices aimed at testing narrowband communication and geopositioning technology, the reports said.
The larger satellite, named "Mahda" and built by Iran's Space Agency, is meant to test the accuracy of the Simorgh rocket in delivering multiple cargoes to space.
Iran launched its Sorayya satellite into orbit this month with a rocket built by the elite military Revolutionary Guards.
Despite condemnation from European countries, Iran defended its decision, saying peaceful technological advancement in the aerospace field was the country’s legitimate right.
13 killed in explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan LNG site
UK's Starmer resigns, paving way for orderly transfer of power
Fire at coaching centre in India's Lucknow kills at least 15
Temperatures to exceed 40C in European heatwave as three die in France
US, Iran conclude high-level talks in Switzerland, mediators say
