[FPSPACE] Two articles on Iran launch...alleges launch was a failed orbital test

[pjp]

>From worldtribune.com

 

http://www.worldtribune.com/worldtribune/07/front2454158.064583333.html

 

 

The article title says

 

Iran's first space launch rocket fails to achieve orbit

 

Excerpt from the article:

 

"..Iran has reported the firing of its first indigenous space launch
vehicle, which is capable of delivering a nuclear warhead. 

But officials said the SLV failed to reach space orbit. 


 

Western analysts said Iran plans to use the SLV program to develop an
intercontinental ballistic missile. They said that any SLV capable of
carrying a 300-kilogram satellite could also deliver a nuclear warhead.."

 

 

I wonder who these un-named officials are, who are saying it was indeed an
orbital launch attempt that didn't.

 

But Middle East Newsline also says the same thing.

 

http://www.menewsline.com/stories/2007/february/02_27_1.html

 

Excerpt:

 

NICOSIA [MENL] -- Iran has reported the firing of its first indigenous space
launch vehicle. 

Officials said the SLV, meant to probe the exoatmosphere, was constructed in
a project by the Defense Ministry and Science Ministry. They said the SLV
failed to reach space orbit.

 

It could be that one news service is quoting the other.  

 

Anyone have more definitive information?

 

Jane's news service hasn't posted anything yet.  I am waiting for that.