Iran says it despatched a capsule with animals into orbit because it prepares for human missions

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran mentioned Wednesday it despatched a capsule into orbit carrying animals because it prepares for human missions in coming years.

A report by the official IRNA information company quoted Telecommunications Minister Isa Zarepour as saying the capsule was launched 130 kilometers (80 miles) into orbit.

Zarepour mentioned the launch of the 500-kilogram (1,000-pound) capsule is aimed toward sending Iranian astronauts to area in coming years. He didn’t say what sort of animals had been within the capsule.

Iran sometimes broadcasts profitable launches of satellites and different area crafts. In September, Iran mentioned it despatched a data-collecting satellite tv for pc into area. In 2013, Iran mentioned it despatched a monkey into area and returned it efficiently.