West fears Ayatollahs can now see "the Great Satan" from outside the Earth.
Iranian built Omid Satellite was launched from Safir 2 space also produced by Iranian scientists.
Satellite was launch as part of the celebrations to mark the 30th annivarsary of the 1979 Revolution that ended American influence in the country.
President Ahmedinejad praised his nations scientists saying that with their efforts Iran now has a "presence in space". Iranians celebrate success of their revolution which U.S. failed to destory after three decades of attempts. Iranian officials said after 30 years American threats, wars and sanctions. Iran has reached space.
From low earth orbit, the Iranian satellite has clear view of any part of the planet. Camera on board can take pictures of city around the world. Iran claims it will only be observing volcanos.
Pentagon experts say American officials are extremely worried that Iran can now "view" the entire United States from space. There is alarm in Washington that Iran now has access to sensitive adavanced technology. Iran is now the 8th nation that can produce its own satellites and launch them independently into space.
United States has another fear: Iranian built rocket Safir 2 can easily be converted into an intercontinental ballistic missile - ICBM.
APN - 02/02/2009
