Iran, which considers its space programme a matter of national pride, has said its space vehicle launches and missile tests were not violations and would continue.
Payam was intended to be used for imaging and communications purposes and was mounted with four cameras, according to a report on the telecommunications ministry’s website.
It was intended to stay at an altitude of 500km for approximately three years.
It is one of two satellites Iran plans to send into orbit, the other named Doosti. Payam means “message” in Farsi, while Doosti means “friendship”.
Over the past decade, Iran has sent several short-lived satellites into orbit and in 2013 launched a monkey into space.
Iran usually displays space achievements in February during the anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution. This year will mark the 40th anniversary of the revolution amid Iran facing increasing pressure from the US under Donald Trump’s administration.
