Lack of Space Ecosystem Hindering Iran’s Use of Satellite Data, Says Research Institute Head

Vahid Yazdaniyan, head of the Iranian Space Research Institute, emphasized the importance of developing a cohesive ecosystem within the country's space industry during an interview with Digiato. He highlighted how space technologies, particularly satellites, could address national challenges such as water scarcity, energy imbalance, air pollution, and governance. Yazdaniyan also discussed several technical, managerial, and structural obstacles hindering progress.

Yazdaniyan argued that many of Iran's current issues, including those in agriculture, water management, and pollution control, stem from inefficiency in decision-making caused by a lack of accurate data. He stressed that satellites could play a crucial role in providing the necessary information to improve governance.

Technology Exists but Lacks Practical Application

Despite advancements in satellite technology, Yazdaniyan acknowledged that Iran has yet to fully utilize satellite data. He noted that while data is being produced, it remains largely unused due to the absence of an economic and service-oriented space ecosystem.

He mentioned limited attempts to use space data for initiatives such as combating land encroachment and smart agriculture. However, these efforts have been disjointed and lack proper structure.

Missing Links in the Space Chain

Yazdaniyan pointed out a significant gap in Iran's space sector. While the Iranian Space Organization regulates the industry and the Space Research Institute handles technical operations, other essential entities are absent. These include operator companies, data processing platforms, and private sector involvement.

"We do not have the concept of a space operator. In telecommunications, we see fixed and mobile operators, but not in the space industry. Without operators, the private sector cannot enter or observe the market," he explained.

Accessibility and Pricing Challenges

Responding to criticisms about the high cost of satellite data from Khayyam Satellite, Yazdaniyan defended its pricing. "Khayyam's images cost about one-tenth compared to similar foreign samples. However, I agree that accessing this data is difficult due to slow and inefficient processes," he said.

Yazdaniyan also emphasized that building satellites solely for domestic purposes is economically unsustainable. He suggested adopting a regional or global approach through international collaboration. "It is not feasible to build satellites only for national use. Cooperation with other countries is vital," he added.

The Cost of Satellite Construction in Iran

Yazdaniyan acknowledged the higher costs of building satellites in Iran compared to global companies like SpaceX. He attributed this disparity to lower production volumes and outdated manufacturing methods.

"Countries that produce satellite constellations benefit from economies of scale and significantly reduced costs. In contrast, we build individual satellites using traditional methods," he stated.

He criticized Iran's approach to satellite development, saying it often focuses on building satellites first and finding markets later. He called for identifying market needs beforehand to encourage private sector investment through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), similar to successful examples in telecommunications.

Revising Iran's Space Roadmap

Yazdaniyan described coordination between the Iranian Space Organization and the Space Research Institute as limited. "The space ecosystem involves more than these two entities. Various players outside the Ministry of Communications must come together in a comprehensive council to revise our national space roadmap," he said.

Future Plans and Transparency

Regarding the Nahid-2 satellite launched via Russia's Soyuz rocket, Yazdaniyan revealed that two versions of Nahid-2 have been built. While the first was launched with Soyuz, the second version is slated for launch on an Iranian rocket by year-end.

He emphasized that Iran needs 50 to 200 satellites for a space constellation. Achieving this goal will require substantial investment, foreign partnerships, and domestic involvement.

Yazdaniyan also called for transparency regarding rocket launch failures to build public trust. "Failures are common worldwide. Reforming media policy to report unsuccessful launches openly is necessary," he said.

Vision for Economic-Space Development

In conclusion, Yazdaniyan outlined future priorities for the Space Research Institute. These include leveraging satellite data for economic gains, promoting international cooperation, and creating a sustainable space ecosystem.

He expressed optimism that within five years, with active involvement from operators and service providers based on satellite data, Iran's space industry could contribute significantly to GDP growth.