The launch of the Qased (Persian for "Messenger") rocket in 2020 marked a pivotal moment in Iran's space activities. Unlike the Safir and Simorgh programs—which were primarily led by the civilian Iranian Space Agency (ISA) and relied on liquid-fueled technology—the Qased rocket is operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Space Force, revealing a parallel, military-driven space program.
The Qased's design and mobility, being small enough to launch from a transporter erector launcher (TEL), represent a significant technological leap for the nation.
A Hybrid of Propulsion and Power
The Qased is a three-stage rocket notable for its "mixed" propulsion system, which combines liquid and solid fuel technology:
First Stage (Liquid-Fueled): This stage is based on the proven Ghadr medium-range ballistic missile technology, which uses storable liquid propellants (UDMH/N2O4). This provides the powerful initial boost off the launch pad.
Second Stage (Solid-Fueled): This is where the Qased truly innovates. It features the Salman engine, a high-performance solid-fueled motor with a lightweight carbon fiber casing and a flexible nozzle for thrust vectoring. This advanced technology allows for better control and precision during the flight.
Third Stage (Solid-Fueled): The final stage utilizes a smaller, compact solid-fuel motor to make the precise adjustments needed to push the satellite into its final Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
This combination of propellants provides the Qased with operational advantages, including faster launch preparation and greater flexibility compared to purely liquid-fueled rockets.
The Maiden Flight: Launching Noor 1
The first orbital flight of the Qased rocket on April 22, 2020, was a major strategic success for the IRGC.
Payload: Noor 1 (Persian for "Light 1"), Iran's first dedicated military satellite.
Mission: The satellite was successfully placed into a circular orbit approximately $425 \text{ km}$ above the Earth. Noor 1 is believed to be a small reconnaissance satellite, intended to bolster Iran's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Significance: The launch demonstrated the IRGC's capacity to build and operate a complex space launch vehicle and deploy military assets into orbit, confirming the existence of a robust, solid-fuel-focused military space program separate from the ISA.
The subsequent successful launches of Noor 2 and Noor 3 also utilized the Qased launch vehicle, further validating the rocket's reliability and the IRGC's increasing competence in space operations.