Karachi (Reported by Rutaba Uroos):
Pakistan has achieved another milestone in space technology by successfully launching its advanced Remote Sensing Satellite from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center, in collaboration with the Chinese government. This launch marks a significant step under Pakistan’s National Space Policy Vision 2047.
With this satellite now in orbit, Pakistan will gain critical capabilities in:
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Earth observation
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Agricultural development
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Natural disaster prediction and monitoring
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Geospatial data for national projects
According to SUPARCO (Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission), the satellite will enable effective monitoring of crop yields, infrastructure inspections, glacier and forest tracking, and early warnings for earthquakes and floods. It will also play a vital role in evaluating climate change impacts, resource management, and government planning.
A Vision for the Future: Pakistan’s Expanding Space Horizon
Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal congratulated the nation, calling it “not just a satellite launch, but the beginning of a new era in Pakistan’s scientific, technological, and self-reliant journey.” He announced that next year, with China’s support, a Pakistani astronaut will be sent into space, with planning already underway.
The minister further revealed that Pakistan aims to launch its own moon mission by 2035, showing long-term ambition in space exploration.
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that advancements in space technology are crucial for national sovereignty and strengthening Pakistan’s global scientific standing. He also thanked SUPARCO, Pakistani engineers and scientists, and the Chinese government, calling the mission a “symbol of Pakistan-China strategic friendship.”
Building on the Past, Reaching for the Future
This isn’t Pakistan’s first foray into remote sensing. In 2018, a similar satellite was launched, but this latest mission is a major upgrade, incorporating cutting-edge technology aligned with Vision 2047.
The space collaboration between Pakistan and China is now entering a new strategic phase, following the success of CPEC, and promises wide-reaching benefits across all sectors of national development.
