# Keyhan-2

> Iranian satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q124367920](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q124367920)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/keyhan-2

## Summary
Keyhan-2 is an Iranian artificial satellite and CubeSat launched on January 28, 2024. Manufactured by Iran Electronics Industries, it was delivered into orbit by the Simorgh expendable launch vehicle from the Imam Khomeini Space Launch Terminal.

## Key Facts
*   **Classification:** Keyhan-2 is defined as an artificial satellite and specifically as a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite consisting of 10cm-sided cubic modules.
*   **Launch Date:** The satellite was successfully launched on January 28, 2024.
*   **Manufacturer:** It was produced by Iran Electronics Industries.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The satellite was deployed using the Simorgh rocket, an Iranian expendable launch vehicle.
*   **Launch Site:** The launch originated from the Imam Khomeini Space Launch Terminal.
*   **Country of Origin:** Iran.
*   **Alternate Name:** The satellite is also aliased as "Kahyan-2."

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Keyhan-2?
A: Keyhan-2 is an artificial satellite classified as a CubeSat. This means it is a miniaturized satellite built from standardized 10cm cubic modules.

### Q: Who manufactured and launched Keyhan-2?
A: The satellite was manufactured by Iran Electronics Industries. It was launched aboard the Simorgh rocket, an Iranian expendable launch vehicle.

### Q: When and where was Keyhan-2 launched?
A: Keyhan-2 was launched on January 28, 2024, from the Imam Khomeini Space Launch Terminal in Iran.

## Why It Matters
Keyhan-2 represents a continued effort by Iran to assert its presence in the domain of space technology and satellite development. As a CubeSat manufactured domestically by Iran Electronics Industries, it highlights the nation's growing capability to produce miniaturized, standardized orbital technology rather than relying solely on larger, more complex satellite systems. The utilization of the indigenous Simorgh launch vehicle further emphasizes Iran's drive for self-sufficiency in both the fabrication of payloads and the means to deploy them.

The launch is significant within the context of Iran's aerospace program as it demonstrates the operational repetition of the Simorgh rocket system. Successfully placing a CubeSat into orbit requires precise engineering and orbital insertion capabilities, serving as a benchmark for the country's technical maturity in spaceflight. By developing CubeSats like Keyhan-2, Iran joins a global trend toward smaller, more cost-effective satellite platforms that can be used for various operational or research purposes.

## Notable For
*   **Miniaturized Technology:** Being a CubeSat, distinguishing it from larger, traditional satellite formats.
*   **Indigenous Production:** Complete manufacturing by Iran Electronics Industries within Iran.
*   **Specific Launch Vehicle:** Deployment via the Simorgh rocket, a key component of Iran's space launch infrastructure.
*   **Recent Operational Milestone:** Launching in early 2024 (January 28), marking a specific point in the timeline of Iran's space activities.

## Body
### Development and Specifications
Keyhan-2 is identified as an artificial satellite specifically designed within the CubeSat standard. This classification indicates that the satellite is a miniaturized object composed of cubic modules, each measuring 10cm per side. The development and manufacturing of the satellite were overseen by Iran Electronics Industries, a key entity in the country's defense and technology sectors. The satellite is also referenced under the alias "Kahyan-2."

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite was launched on January 28, 2024. The mission utilized the Simorgh launch vehicle, an Iranian expendable rocket designed to deliver payloads into orbit. The launch took place at the Imam Khomeini Space Launch Terminal, serving as the primary start point for the mission. Following the launch, the event was documented across multiple information channels, confirming the date and vehicle specifications.

### Context and Classification
As an instance of an artificial satellite, Keyhan-2 contributes to Iran's inventory of orbital objects. Its creation and launch are linked to the broader framework of Iranian aerospace efforts, utilizing the Simorgh (Phoenix) rocket, which acts as a critical delivery system for the country's space program.

## References

1. [Source](https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/7489)
2. [Source](https://en.irna.ir/news/85367944/Iran-receives-first-signals-from-Mahda-satellite-Minister)
3. SATCAT
4. [Source](https://apnews.com/article/iran-satellite-launch-us-ballistic-missiles-israel-hamas-74bcd3eb7e48a31be4f52b8d86d24721)