Iran acknowledged for the first time on Monday that a rocket at its Imam Khomeini Space Center exploded after satellite photos showed the blast last week
However, Rabiei dismissed that, saying that “this has been a technical matter and a technical error. Our experts unanimously say so.”
Commercially available satellite images by Planet Labs Inc. and Maxar Technologies showed a black plume of smoke rising above a launch pad Thursday, with what appeared to be the charred remains of a rocket and its launch stand. In previous days, satellite images had shown officials there repainted the launch pad blue.Sign up for Morning Defense, a daily briefing on Washington's national security apparatus.By signing up you agree to receive email newsletters or alerts from POLITICO.
The image showed damaged vehicles around the launch pad, as well as damage done to the rocket’s launcher. It also clearly showed a large phrase written in Farsi on the pad: “National Product, National Power.” The blast followed two failed satellite launches of the Payam and Doosti in January and February. A separate fire at the Imam Khomeini Space Center in February also killed three researchers, authorities said at the time.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Official warns Iran can take 'strong step' away from dealTEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran's government spokesman is warning that Tehran will 'take a strong step' away from its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers if Europe doesn't offer the country new terms by...
Read more »
Iran says it closes gaps with France in talks on nuclear dealIran and France's views have become closer over Tehran's nuclear deal,...
Read more »
Iran vows to take 'stronger step' away from nuclear deal – Gulf tensionsSince the US pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal last year, European parties to the pact have been trying to convince Iran to remain compliant by promising to shield its economic interests from US sanctions.
Read more »
Iran says it will take 'stronger step' away from nuclear deal if Europe doesn't actIran is prepared to take a 'stronger step' in reducing its commitments...
Read more »
Iran says test malfunction caused rocket explosionTEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran is for the first time acknowledging that a rocket explosion took place at its Imam Khomeini Space Center, with an official saying a technical malfunction caused the...
Read more »
Iran warns EU over nuclear commitments as deadline for further steps loomsIran said on Monday it would further reduce its commitments under a 2015 nuclear...
Read more »