Iran to launch its own communications satellite-IRANSAT3

The Iran Space Agency (ISA) announced that it will launch into space its first communications satellite, Iransat3, within the next six years.

Director of the ISA Hamid Fazeli said the satellite, which will weigh 250 kilograms, will be sent into a geostationary orbit using a domestically manufactured launcher. The satellite is designed to transmit radio and television broadcasts and provide telecommunications and internet services.

The massive project also aims to provide the international audience with a standalone facility to receive the programs aired by the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting Organization (IRIB).

The decision to set up the spatial facility came after western satellite providers cut off their services to the IRIB in October.