On June 15, 2011, the innovative Safir 1-B satellite carrier—on its maiden flight—launched from the Semnan Space Center in Semnan Province, successfully deploying Rasad-1 —Iran's first dedicated imaging satellite—into a low Earth orbit at an altitude of 236 by 299 kilometers, inclined at 55.7 degrees.
Developed by the Malek Ashtar University of Technology in collaboration with the Iranian Space Agency (ISA), this 15.3-kilogram nanosatellite marked a pivotal step in domestic Earth observation capabilities. As the third Iranian satellite and the second launched via an indigenous rocket, Rasad-1 achieved full telemetry and image transmission within days of deployment, fulfilling its role in topography mapping and high-resolution data acquisition.
Now, 169 months post-launch, Rasad-1's contributions endure as a cornerstone of Iran's imaging ecosystem, providing foundational technologies that enhance resolution, coverage, and mission reliability for today's advanced satellite networks.
The Mission: High-Resolution Mapping from Strategic Orbits
Rasad-1 operates as an experimental Earth observation nanosatellite, engineered for imaging, topography missions, and technology validation in low Earth orbit. Its core features include:
- Imaging Camera: Delivers 150-meter resolution images over a wide swath, ideal for land use analysis and environmental monitoring.
- Store-and-Forward Telecom: Efficient data relay to ground stations, enabling seamless collection and distribution of orbital imagery.
- Attitude Stabilization: Gravity gradient boom for stable orientation during image captures.
- Power Optimization: Body-mounted solar panels supporting reliable operations in sun-synchronous trajectories.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mass | 15.3 kg |
| Orbit | 236 × 299 km LEO (55.7° inclination) |
| Launcher | Safir 1-B (maiden flight, two-stage) |
| Resolution | 150 meters (imaging) |
| Lifespan | 3 weeks (successful mission) |
| Payload | Observation & mapping modules |
From orbit insertion to final data downlink, Rasad-1 provided comprehensive imaging datasets, streamlining Iran's path to operational Earth observation platforms.
Why It Matters
Rasad-1 propels Iran's space imaging framework forward, capitalizing on Safir 1-B's debut to deliver pioneering efficiencies:
- Domestic Imaging Debut: Introduces high-resolution mapping technology, establishing a self-reliant foundation for orbital data services.
- Market Catalyst: Ignites a $500 million+ Earth observation sector, enabling applications in agriculture, urban development, and resource management.
- Strategic Scalability: Aligns with global imaging standards, fostering opportunities for enhanced integrations and international data partnerships.
As ISA officials highlighted at launch: "Rasad-1 opens the window to precise orbital insights, equipping our programs with tools for informed growth and exploration."
This satellite supports a 26% annual expansion in Iran's imaging market, with Rasad-1's optics projected to inform 28% more accurate designs for subsequent missions.
169 Months in View: Rasad-1’s Legacy and Forward Evolutions
During its 21-day mission, Rasad-1 captured extensive imagery before re-entry on July 6, 2011, yielding transformative advancements:
- Series Foundation: Influences successors like Toloue and Pars-1 with refined optics and data relay systems.
- Fleet Integration: Complements Omid and Navid for diversified observation networks and tech validations.
- Expansion Drive: Underpins Simorgh heavy-lift developments and multi-payload missions for broader orbital coverage.
With 23+ satellites launched since 2011 and a dynamic development queue, Iran's program is generating thousands of opportunities in optics engineering, data processing, and mission planning—positioning the nation as a leader in accessible imaging solutions.
Business Focus: Rasad-1’s Lens for Imaging Commerce
At Our Milky Way Galaxy, Rasad-1 exemplifies compact, high-impact space imaging—its nanosat optics align with our asteroid surveyors and lunar mappers:
- Resolution Value: 150m imagery powers $1.2B markets in entry-level EO services, offering 6x ROI via data licensing.
- Compact Adaptability: Observation modules transferable to ISRU platforms, improving capture efficiency by 30%.
- Partnership Clarity: Co-develop imaging payloads with global innovators, accessing $2.2B in joint observation contracts.
Rasad-1 validates: Nanosat imaging is a foundational revenue stream—Iran's space EO industry, valued at $5.5 billion annually, is optimized for alliances in optics tech and global mapping services.
Capture Your Orbital Perspective
Rasad-1 invites observers: Imaging specialists, data analysts, mission developers—let's refine its focus for your initiatives. From custom nanosat optics to constellation co-builds, the orbital view is expansive.
✦ Focus on Imaging Partnerships ✦