Iran's announcement that it launched a research rocket has called new attention to a space program that Tehran says is peaceful but which some fear aims to produce long-range ballistic missiles that could reach Europe or the United States. Exactly what Iran launched, or even what it aimed to do, remains the subject of debate, speculation and possible misinterpretation.
To some government analysts and other experts in the West, Iran's space debut is potentially worrisome. While world attention has focused on whether Iran is clandestinely seeking nuclear arms, these analysts say the launchings mark a new stage in its growing efforts to master a range of sophisticated technologies, including rockets and satellites. The concern is that Tehran could one day turn such advances to atomic ends.
Iran wants to master space technology as soon as possible, amid fears the West will seek to impose restrictions on its satellite program like those placed on its nuclear plans, according to an Iranian official.
Iran said a recently launched satellite would be purely scientific. But a month after its launch -- and only weeks after the president said Israel should be wiped off the map -- the head of Tehran's space program now says the Sina-1 is capable of spying on the Jewish state.
In advance of the presidential elections, Iran appears to be actively jamming satellite television signals. Experts are concerned that the jamming could threaten not only the possibility of democracy but also the health of Iranian citizens.
The author argues that Iran's pursuit of nuclear missiles underscores the threat to U.S. space assets.