Iran Rockets to New Heights with Simorgh Launch

On December 6, 2024, Iran hoisted its space ambitions skyward with the successful Simorgh rocket launch from Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan province. Carrying the heaviest payload yet—a 300 kg Fakhr-1 telecommunications satellite and Saman-1 space tug—this milestone rockets Iran closer to geo-synchronized orbits. The U.S. criticizes the launch, wary of missile technology crossover, while Tehran insists its space endeavors remain peaceful. Amid Middle East tensions, Iran's space program proves the sky isn't the limit.