Iran sends capsule with animals into orbit as it prepares for human missions

A rocket with a capsule carrying animals was launched from an undisclosed location into orbit (Iranian defence ministry via AP)

Iran has sent a capsule into orbit carrying animals as it prepares for human missions in the coming years, officials said.

A report by the official IRNA news agency quoted telecommunications minister Isa Zarepour as saying the capsule was launched 80 miles into orbit.