Iran has successfully launched a new communications satellite called Nahid-2 into space with the help of Russia. The satellite was sent up on July 25, 2025, from Russia’s Vostochny Cosmodrome using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket. According to Iranian state television, the satellite weighs about 110 kilograms (240 pounds) and was designed and built by Iranian engineers.
This launch is part of Iran’s growing space programme, which has made several advances in recent years. In December, Iran said it launched its heaviest satellite payload ever using a homemade rocket. In September, it also launched a research satellite called Chamran-1 using a military rocket called Ghaem-100, built by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ aerospace division.
Some Western countries, especially the United States, France, Germany, and Britain, worry that Iran’s space technology could also be used to improve its ballistic missile programme, which could carry nuclear weapons. These governments believe space technology might help Iran develop long-range missiles, something they strongly oppose.
The launch came just hours before important nuclear talks began in Istanbul, Turkey. These talks include Iran and three major European countries — Britain, France, and Germany — who are trying to prevent Iran from expanding its nuclear programme
The meeting is the first since a recent wave of conflict in mid-June, when Israel launched attacks on Iran, causing a 12-day conflict. The United States joined the fight on Israel’s side and reportedly attacked Iranian nuclear facilities. This has raised tensions in the Middle East once again.
Despite international pressure, Iran continues to insist on its right to develop nuclear energy and space technology.
As Iran pushes forward with its space missions, the world watches closely. With nuclear talks now underway and tensions still high, the success of the Nahid-2 launch may increase both pride at home and concerns abroad.
