Iran plans a major bio-capsule launch to advance its space technology capabilities. The Iranian Space Agency announced that engineers have completed the final design and construction stages of an upgraded bio-capsule. Officials said the agency will conduct a suborbital test within the next six to nine months. This bio-capsule launch represents a critical step in testing advanced life-support and navigation systems.
Hassan Salarieh, head of the Iranian Space Agency, stated that the first suborbital mission will focus on testing technical systems rather than carrying living organisms. He recalled that Iran launched a 500-kilogram bio-capsule about two years ago. Engineers began working on the next-generation capsule immediately afterward. They initially targeted a mass of 1,500 kilograms, but redesigns reduced it to around 700 kilograms, improving efficiency.
Despite its smaller size, Salarieh emphasized that the upgraded capsule performs better than previous models. Engineers optimized its guidance, control, and navigation systems, and they increased volume and mass efficiency. Salarieh highlighted the improved controllability and precise attitude management as essential for future missions carrying biological payloads or humans. He added that the capsule provides suitable life-support conditions, tolerating acceleration and environmental factors.
The agency will launch the bio-capsule using a domestically developed liquid-fueled launcher. Previously, the “Salman” launcher carried the 500-kilogram capsule. Engineers designed a new launcher to handle the heavier capsule and control acceleration levels for future biological missions. Salarieh reported strong progress on both the capsule and the launcher, while noting that space projects can face technical delays.
Experts said the mission demonstrates Iran’s growing space capabilities. A fully controllable capsule enables future biological experiments and human-rated missions. The bio-capsule launch also strengthens Iran’s domestic aerospace industry and may influence regional space programs.
Officials confirmed that engineers will perform multiple test flights before adding biological payloads. The agency expects the first experimental mission in early next Iranian year to validate technical systems. If tests succeed, Iran could expand the program to more complex space missions. The bio-capsule launch shows Iran’s commitment to advancing its space program. The project prioritizes safety, technical precision, and independent aerospace development.