January 05, 2004

Iran Goes Orbital

Contrary to prior announcements that the Shahab-4 missile program was cancelled, Iran announced today that it would be launching a communications satellite within 18 months using a Shahab-4 booster.

For those not normally in the habit of thinking about space, if you can put a payload into orbit, putting something sub-orbital is easier. The most common use for sub-orbital launchers is as intercontinental ballistic missiles.

HT to Debka.

Posted by TMLutas at January 5, 2004 04:39 PM