Iran has successfully launched a research satellite into space using a domestically developed rocket. On Saturday, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the new satellite, according to a report from the state-run news agency, IRNA.

The report stated that the new satellite, named Chamran-1, weighs 50 kilograms and was placed in low-Earth orbit at an altitude of 550 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The satellite's primary mission is to test hardware and software functionality in space. It was launched using the Qayyem-100 rocket, developed by the IRGC’s Aerospace Division, which utilizes solid fuel. IRNA's report confirmed that the satellite was successfully positioned in orbit and has already sent signals back to ground control.

Iran announced that this was its 13th consecutive satellite launch. Although the country has long aimed to send satellites into orbit, this marks the first launch under the new President, Masoud Pejeskian, following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May.

Earlier in January, Iran claimed to have successfully launched three satellites into space using a rocket. Western nations view Iran’s space program as part of its ballistic missile development strategy. This recent launch comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza and increasing regional conflict risks.

The United States has previously criticized Iran’s satellite launches, accusing them of violating UN Security Council resolutions. Washington has also urged Tehran to refrain from activities related to the development of ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

Notably, the UN-imposed restrictions on Iran's ballistic missile program expired last October.