Iran enters space era with launch of satellite-capable rocket into space
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This is marking what would be a significant step in the nation's domestic space program.
The announcement, made on state-run Iranian television Thursday, said the nation successfully launched a Simorgh rocket capable of carrying a 550-lb. satellite into orbit, though it was not immediately clear whether the rocket was actually carrying a satellite or not.
The word "simorgh" in Farsi translates to phoenix.
The launch does not violate the terms of Iran's deal with the United States and other Western nations to curb its nuclear program, though news Iran has made progress on developing long-range missiles has drawn rebukes from the international community and, if continued, could constitute a violation of the agreement. ■