Overview

• Iran has launched a 'biological capsule' into low Earth orbit, a step towards its goal of sending astronauts into space by 2029.
• The capsule, weighing 500 kilograms, was launched atop a 'Salman' rocket and reached an altitude of 130 kilometers.
• The capsule is capable of carrying animals, presumably to test life support systems before a human crew is sent aboard.
• The launch has strategic significance as Iran is known to possess medium-range ballistic missiles and has previously placed satellites in orbit.
• Telecommunications Minister Isa Zarepour has told Iranians to expect more good news about the nation's space program soon.