Joint Launch Marks Strengthened Russia–Iran Space Collaboration
On July 25, 2025, Russia successfully launched the Iranian telecommunications satellite Nahid‑2 into orbit aboard a Soyuz‑2.1b rocket from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Siberia. The mission also deployed two Russian Ionosfera‑M space weather satellites and 17 smaller cubesats, reflecting deepening bilateral cooperation in space exploration. 0
Nahid‑2: Specifications and Orbit Profile
The 110 kg Iranian-built Nahid‑2 is designed for telecom operations at a low Earth orbit of approximately 500 km (310 miles) and is expected to function for two years. 1
Parallel Payload: Ionosfera‑M Constellation Completes
The Soyuz mission carried Russia’s Ionosfera‑M 3 and 4 satellites, finalizing a four-satellite constellation tasked with monitoring the ionosphere. These operate around 820 km altitude for space weather observations and ozone measurement—enhancing global atmospheric data coverage. 2
Context & Strategic Implications
This launch follows similar missions in 2022, 2024, and November 2024 when Russia launched Iran’s Kowsar and Hodhod satellites. Iran and Russia signed a strategic partnership in January 2025, under which they condemned recent US and Israeli actions targeting Iran. Despite close ties, Moscow affirmed that Iran has not sought military assistance under the treaty. 3
Key Facts & Timeline
- Launch date: July 25, 2025
- Launch site: Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia
- Rocket: Soyuz‑2.1b
- Primary payloads: Nahid‑2 (Iran, 110 kg), Ionosfera‑M 3 & 4 (Russia)
- Additional payloads: 17 Russian cubesats
- Orbital altitudes: Nahid‑2 at ~500 km; Ionosfera‑M at ~820 km
- Satellite lifespan: ≈2 years (Nahid‑2)
- Earlier Iranian launches by Russia: 2022, early and late 2024 missions
Trivia & Quiz Notes
• The Nahid‑1 mission launched in March 2023 aboard Iran’s Qaem‑100 rocket failed to reach orbit; Nahid‑2 corrected that setback. 4
• Ionosfera‑M satellites focus on ionospheric dynamics and ozone levels, essential for civilian and military radio‑communication integrity. 5
• Russia’s continued launch support highlights its role as a crucial partner in Iran’s expanding aerospace ambitions.
• Strategic satellite launches often serve dual purposes: scientific outreach and technological signaling.
Conclusion: Symbolic & Strategic Lift-Off
The Nahid‑2 launch underscores Russia’s reliable assistance in advancing Iran’s civilian space and telecom capabilities. Simultaneously, the completion of Russia’s Ionosfera‑M constellation showcases its growing investment in space weather intelligence. This mission highlights both countries’ dedication to leveraging space for scientific, diplomatic, and technological ends.
Source: Menafn