Iran recently launched the Noor-3 imaging satellite into orbit, further enhancing its space capabilities. This imaging satellite, with potential espionage capabilities, orbits at an altitude of 450 kilometers above Earth. It was launched using the three-stage Qased carrier rocket. Noor-1 and Noor-2, its predecessors, were launched in April 2020 and March 2022, respectively. While Noor-1 re-entered Earth’s atmosphere in April 2022, Noor-2 remains operational and may collaborate with Noor-3 in the future. The launch was executed by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard’s aerospace division, which operates independently and reports directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Qased Carrier: A three-stage carrier rocket used to launch the Noor-3 satellite into space.
- Revolutionary Guard: Iran’s paramilitary organization responsible for various military and strategic activities, including its own space program, independent of the regular armed forces.
- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: The highest-ranking authority in Iran, with significant influence over the country’s policies and military operations.
- Espionage Capabilities: Refers to the potential for the Noor-3 satellite to be used for surveillance and intelligence-gathering purposes due to its imaging capabilities.
- Orbit Altitude: The height above Earth’s surface at which the Noor-3 satellite is positioned, in this case, 450 kilometers (280 miles), influencing its surveillance capabilities and coverage.