Tehran calls rocket test a success
TEHRAN — Iran successfully launched its most advanced satellite-carrying rocket into space, the country’s state media reported Thursday, in what is likely the most significant step yet for the launch vehicle.
A confirmed launch of the Simorgh rocket would be another step forward for the Islamic Republic’s young space program, but is likely to raise alarm among its adversaries, who fear the same technology could be used to produce long-range missiles.
The Trump administration considers the launch a violation of the spirit of the landmark nuclear accord because it reflects provocative action by Tehran, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said.
She said the launch appeared to be related to Iran’s attempts to develop ballistic missiles, which is not covered under the nuclear deal but is a subject of protest and sanctioning by the United States.
Iranian state television said the rocket, whose name means “phoenix” in Persian, is capable of carrying a satellite weighing 550 pounds. The report did not elaborate on the rocket’s payload. Other state-linked agencies including the semiofficial Fars news agency also described the launch as successful.
News reports did not say when the launch took place at the Imam Khomeini National Space Station in Semnan, about 138 miles east of Tehran.
Iran frequently announces technological breakthroughs that are difficult to independently verify. It has carried out multiple tests of short- and mediumrange ballistic missiles as well as other domestically produced weapons over the years.