ISA Fajr launch at Semnan Satellite Launch Center

Above: ISA launch of IEI Fajr satellite at Semnan Satellite Launch Center

At the commencement of the 10 Day Dawn Cellebration, on 02FEB15 the Iranian Space Agency (ISA) successfully launched an Iran Electronics Industry Fajr ("Dawn") satellite into orbit using a Safir ("Ambassador") space launch vehicle (SLV) at Semnan Satellite Launch Center.

Observers had been led to expect Iran's latest launch was to utilize a larger SLV from the Imam Khomeini Space Launch Center but this was not the case. A number of observers had even mistakenly concluded the Iran space program was dead due to financial constraints. Once again the Iranians demonstrate a capacity to surprise.

The Fajr satellite is claimed to possess a cold gas thruster system, enabling an increase in lifespan to ~1.5 years. It also features a new generation of solar panels that better withstand high pressure and temperatures. It represents a lifted payload of 50 kgs, to an apogee of ~450 km.

Purpose of the Fajr satellite is the "taking and transmitting high-quality and accurate pictures to stations on earth". The satellite also uses an indigenous GPS-type  specialized celestial positioning system.

The IEI Fajr satellite can be tracked in real time HERE.

ISA Safir ("Ambassador") space launch vehicle (SLV) at Semnan Satellite Launch Center

ISA Safir at the launch pad, prior to launch. Note transporter erector launcher (TEL) at bottom right, more typically performing transport and launch duties for Shahab 3 type MRBMs.

The Iran Electronics Industry Fajr ("Dawn") satellite

For a sense of scale, Fajr satellite prototype depicted at far right

IRINN VIDEO:

Photos:

Islamic Republic News Agency

Vahid Reza Alaei at Fars News Agency