The Iranian Space Agency (ISA) has successfully launched the domestically developed Nahid-2 satellite into space aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket. The launch took place on Friday, July 25, from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome, signifying a major milestone in Iran's advancing space program.

According to data from the Vostochny Cosmodrome, the Nahid-2 satellite entered orbit at an altitude of approximately 500 kilometers. The mission was part of a broader multi-satellite deployment that included Russia's Ionosfera-M3 and M4 satellites, along with 18 others from various countries.

🇮🇷| NEW: Iran launched the Nahid-2 satellite into space today with a domestic hot-gas propulsion system, using the Russian Soyuz SLV.

Nahid-2 has a strategic importance for Iran as it’s a vital step for orbital transfer which Iran needs to reach GEO orbital layer. pic.twitter.com/SvFtIdKM8m

— Arya - آریا (@AryJeay) July 25, 2025

Technical specifications

Nahid-2 weighs around 110 kilograms and is designed to remain in orbit for up to five years. A standout feature of the satellite is its indigenous propulsion system, engineered entirely by Iranian space experts. This system allows for altitude adjustments of up to 50 km, addressing challenges such as orbital decay due to Earth's gravity.

The propulsion technology includes Iranian-manufactured hot gas thrusters, a composite fuel tank, high-pressure valves, and precision control thrusters. These components, often restricted on the global market, were developed domestically, showcasing Iran's self-reliance in high-tech aerospace solutions.

Additional technical elements onboard Nahid-2 include three-axis attitude control, bidirectional communications across multiple frequency bands, advanced data management systems, and a power distribution network. Notably, it will test communications technologies using the Ku-band frequency for the first time in Iran’s space operations.

Fully made in Iran

The Nahid-2 satellite was developed by the Iranian Space Agency in collaboration with the Iranian Space Research Center and a network of knowledge-based domestic companies. It was commissioned under the supervision of Iran's Ministry of Information and Communications Technology.

Key components, including polymer-based coatings and space-grade adhesives used for thermal insulation and conductivity, were created by Iranian research institutions. The satellite also utilizes lithium-ion batteries manufactured in Iran, capable of enduring tens of thousands of charge-discharge cycles throughout its mission duration.

Significance of the launch

The successful deployment of Nahid-2 represents Iran’s growing capabilities in space technology and satellite engineering. It not only enhances Iran’s presence in low Earth orbit (LEO) but also contributes to the country’s long-term goals in developing high-altitude geostationary (GEO) communications satellites.

This launch underscores Iran’s commitment to advancing domestic space technologies, particularly in areas where international access to components and systems is limited due to sanctions.

The Soyuz rocket carrying Nahid-2 also bore the emblem of the Iranian Space Agency, symbolizing Iran’s official participation in a major international space mission. Russia has previously launched several Iranian satellites, including Khayyam, Pars-1, and Hodhod.

This joint effort marks a strengthening of Iran-Russia space cooperation and positions Iran among nations capable of contributing to complex multinational satellite missions.