Грифон №4
Iranian 'Paya' experienced unusual rotation after separation but was successfully stabilized later.
The Paya, Zafar-2, and Kowsar satellites are expected to contribute to Iran’s growing requirement for high-resolution imagery and data connectivity.
Paya belongs to a new class of satellite platforms designed for broader geographic coverage.
The Paya satellite is the 18th satellite deployed under Iran’s national space program.
The reception of signals marks the official commencement of the operational phase for the Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar satellites.
The Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar satellites were launched via a Russian Soyuz launch vehicle from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in eastern Russia.
The successful signal reception from Paya validates the readiness of this satellite platform for its primary mission phases.
On December 28, 2024, the Iranian Ministry of Information and Communications Technology confirmed the successful reception of first signals from the Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar satellites.
The deployment of Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar underscores Iran’s sustained presence in the space domain.
Iran plans to launch three remote-sensing satellites, Zafar-2, Paya, and the second batch of Kosar satellites.
Iran plans to launch three domestically developed remote-sensing satellites - Zafar, Paya, and Kowsar - into orbit this winter.
Iran confirmed that the Earth-observation satellites Zafar and Paya are scheduled for launch aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket in late 2025.
Both Zafar and Paya satellites are designed to deliver black-and-white and color imaging services.