U.S. Confirms Iranian Satellite Launch

WASHINGTON [MENL] -- The United States has confirmed Iran's claim of a
successful satellite launch.
Officials said Iran sent an unspecified experimental satellite into
low-earth orbit on late Feb. 2 or early Feb. 3. They said the launch marked
a major achievement for Iran's space and missile program as well as
Teheran's ability to fire a one-ton payload that could reach much of Europe.
"The development of a space launch vehicle establishes the technical
basis from which Iran could develop long-range ballistic missile systems,"
acting State Department spokesman Robert Wood said.