TEHRAN -- The Iranian satellite Payam has failed to reach orbit in a launch on January 15, 2019. According to Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Javad, the satellite did not reach the necessary speed in the third stage of launch. The first and second stages reportedly functioned properly.
The Payam, or "message" in Farsi, was an imagery satellite. There is another satellite, Doosti, waiting for launch; however, it is unclear as to its mission. Whether the Payam failure will have any effect on the Doosti launch remains to be seen.
The United States opposes such launches as the rockets used in the launch could aid development of a ballistic missile, which is a violation of international agreements.