Iran’s first satellite ‘completes mission’

AFP: Iran's first ever home-built satellite, which was sent into orbit last month, has now completed its mission, state television reported on Thursday.

TEHRAN (AFP) — Iran's first ever home-built satellite, which was sent into orbit last month, has now completed its mission, state television reported on Thursday.

The launch of the Omid (Hope) satellite sent alarm bells ringing in the international community, which voiced concern over Iran's development of technology that could be used for military purposes.

"The satellite did not encounter any technical problems," space expert Asghar Ebrahimi was quoted by the television as saying. "The satellite has successfully completed its mission."

He said the satellite, which was launched in February to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Islamic revolution, would remain in orbit for another 38 days before re-entering Earth's atmosphere.

Western powers, which are at loggerheads with Iran over its nuclear ambitions, voiced fears that the technology for launching satellites could also be used for ballistic missiles.

Iran denies having military goals for its space programme or nuclear drive.