Pakistan on Thursday announced the successful launch of its remote sensing satellite in collaboration with China. Pakistan labelled it a significant milestone and expressed hope that the development would aid disaster management, food security, and environmental protection.
The launch of the satellite marks another step in Pakistan’s growing engagement with other space agencies with Chinese assistance. The two countries are also preparing to send the first Pakistani astronaut into space aboard China’s Tiangong space station, with training programs currently underway.
“Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the National Space Agency of Pakistan, proudly announces a historic achievement with the successful launch of Remote Sensing Satellite from Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), China,” SUPARCO said in a statement.
“Remote Sensing Satellite will provide imaging capabilities to revolutionize urban planning, disaster management, food security, and environmental protection,” it added. “It will also greatly aid in monitoring climate change, managing water resources, mapping agricultural patterns, and tracking deforestation,” read the official statement.
The satellite was launched with technical cooperation from the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation and Microsat China. Soparko said the satellite will also support national development initiatives such as the CPAC by mapping transportation networks and identifying geo-hazard risks.
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The statement also noted that the launch would serve as the foundation for an integrated Earth observation system aimed at supporting national priorities and sustainable development. The Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal also praised the efforts of engineers and technical experts from both the countries, calling the launch a symbol of unwavering commitment to the technological process. The footage of the successful launch of the satellite was released on social media on Thursday morning.
SUPARCO stated that the satellite aligns with Pakistan’s National Space Policy and the Vision 2047 roadmap, which aims to elevate the country into the ranks of technologically advanced nations through innovation in space technology.