Iran has launched a rocket into space with a test capsule designed to carry a monkey, the IRNA news agency said on Thursday.
According to IRNA, the launch of the Kavoshgar 4 rocket was conducted on March 15.
During the mission, scientists tested the performance of all of the rocket's systems, including capsule separation and reentry, and life-support system performance, IRNA said.
No living organisms were on board the capsule, which was designed and built solely by Iranian scientists.
Iran announced an ambitious space program in the mid-2000s. The country launched the Kavoshgar 1 rocket into space in February 2008.
The Kavoshgar 2 rocket, carrying a space lab and a restoration system, was launched in November 2008.
In February 2010, the Kavoshgar 3 rocket reportedly carried a test capsule with a rat, a turtle and worms into space.
Western powers suspect Iran of using its space program to develop ballistic missiles. Iran denies the allegations.
MOSCOW, March 17 (RIA Novosti)
