Iran launches monkey into space (maybe)

Speaking of dictatorships shooting things into space, Iran says it has successfully launched a monkey into space and "returned its shipment intact."

The report comes from the state news agency Fars and, so far, has not been independently confirmed, says The Guardian.

The rocket reportedly traveled 120 kilometres before returning the monkey to Earth.

While Iran says its space program is peaceful, there is international concern that research into rockets could be used for long-range missiles and nuclear warheads.

The monkey is also displeased, at least judging by these very sad photos from Iranian television.