The second factor reflects the long-term desire to develop economically, socially and technologically. In this respect, the space programme is an opportunity for Iranian scientists to cut their teeth and hopefully create high-tech spin-offs that may help the Iranian economy. Space systems are seen as a means to help develop several facets of the Iranian economy (energy, telecommunications) and society (the preservation of Iranian culture by being able to broadcast state-approved programming throughout Iran and beyond and the simultaneous eradication of all unsuitable foreign cultural influences). The notion that space systems may help Iranian science for the sakes of science seems does not seem to be a priority, despite signs of the flourishment of pure science towards the end of the Khatami administration. Whether Ahmedinejad is prepared to nurture Iranian science in the same spirit of free inquiry is an open question.

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Sheldon, John B. "A Really Hard Case: Iranian Space Ambitions and the Prospects for U.S. Engagement." Astropolitics. Vol. 4, No. 2 (Summer 2006): 229-251. [ 3 quotes ] [ page 242 ]