Iran has strengthened its satellite control capabilities with the launch of two new ground stations in Salmas and Chenaran. Satellite control now benefits from improved accuracy and faster reception of high-quality imagery. Hassan Salariyeh, head of the Iranian Space Agency, highlighted the strategic importance of these stations in an exclusive statement. He explained that the Salmas and Chenaran facilities provide critical access to satellite data and enable full satellite control operations.
The new ground stations feature advanced antennas capable of operating across multiple frequency bands and wavelengths. The stations also house the Satellite Mission Control Center, where command uplinks and data downlinks are executed efficiently. According to Salariyeh, the geographic spread of these facilities allows Iran to communicate with satellites over longer periods during each pass. These operational improvements reduce the time required for satellite stabilization and attitude adjustments. Salariyeh emphasized that faster control maneuvers translate into enhanced operational flexibility and more effective satellite management. The Salmas station is already operational, while the Chenaran facility is expected to open soon.
Experts in satellite technology note that expanding ground infrastructure directly improves national capabilities in earth observation, imagery collection, and data analysis. By covering both northwest and northeast regions, these stations allow broader monitoring and reduce communication gaps during satellite missions. The Iranian Space Agency has pursued satellite control improvements for several years. Recent advancements in satellite design, imaging resolution, and data transmission speed complement the new ground stations. These developments position the agency to maximize efficiency in satellite operations and strengthen the country’s presence in space monitoring activities.
Salariyeh also stressed the strategic benefits of adding more control centers nationwide. As the number of ground stations increases, Iran gains flexibility during satellite passes, enhances data collection windows, and improves mission response times. The agency plans to continue expanding infrastructure to meet growing demands in space technology. Industry analysts highlight that such investments in satellite control can support multiple sectors, including environmental monitoring, disaster management, and urban planning. Moreover, improved satellite data can aid research and development initiatives, providing policymakers and scientists with more accurate information.
Looking ahead, the Iranian Space Agency is likely to prioritize further upgrades to satellite control infrastructure. This may involve deploying additional stations, upgrading antennas, or integrating new satellite technologies. As these capabilities expand, Iran will gain more autonomy in satellite operations and enhanced efficiency in data management. In conclusion, the Salmas and Chenaran ground stations mark a significant step forward for Iran’s satellite control capabilities. These facilities increase operational precision, extend communication windows, and strengthen national capacity in satellite monitoring and management.