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[VIDEOS] Pakistan's first moon mission 'iCube Qamar' launched

Does Pakistan's entry into the space age fill you with joy?

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In a historic moment for Pakistan, iCube Qamar — the country's first satellite mission to the moon — has been be launched into the space today.

The satellite, being carried by China's Long March-5 rocket, took off for its visit to space on board the Chang'E6 from the Wenchang Space launch site in the Hainan province in China.

The launch activity was telecast live on the IST website and the Chinese state television.

Following the launch, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif felicitated the nation and the scientists for launching the first lunar orbit mission.

In a statement, the PM said ICUBE-Q satellite is Pakistan's first step in space.

The PM said Pakistani scientists, engineers and skilled workers are proving their mettle in this field like the expertise they exhibited in nuclear technology.

He expressed tribute to the core committee of the Institute of Space Technology, including Dr Khurram Khurshid, all the members of the SUPARCO team and students, who participated in this project.

While congratulating students and scientists on the launch, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said: "Today’s launch from Hainan in China, is a good example of countries and organisations coming together for space cooperation and shared benefits."

Speaking with Geo News, Dr Khurshid — a member of the Core Committee at the Institute of Space Technology (IST) — said that Pakistan's satellite mission will reach the lunar orbit in five days and will circle around the moon for three to six months.

He added that different pictures of the surface of the moon will be taken with the help of satellite after which Pakistan will have its own satellite images of the moon for research.

The satellite has been designed and developed by the IST in collaboration with China's Shanghai University and Pakistan's national space agency SUPARCO.

ICUBE-Q orbiter carries two optical cameras to image the lunar surface. Following successful qualification and testing, ICUBE-Q has now been integrated with the Chang’e6 mission. Chang’e6 is the sixth in a series of China’s lunar exploration missions.

Chang’6, China’s Lunar Mission will touch down on the moon’s far side to collect samples from the surface and return to earth for research.

The mission holds significance for Pakistan as it will also take a Pakistan CubeSat Satellite iCube-Q, developed by IST.

CubeSats are miniature satellites typically characterised by their small size and standardised design. They are constructed in a cubic shape, consisting of modular components that adhere to specific size constraints.

These satellites often weigh no more than a few kilogrammes and are deployed in space for various purposes.

The primary purpose of CubeSats is to facilitate scientific research, technology development, and educational initiatives in space exploration.

www.thenews.com.pk

Pakistan's first moon mission 'iCube Qamar' launched

ISLAMABAD: In a historic moment for Pakistan, iCube Qamar — the country's first satellite mission to the moon — has been be launched into the space today.The satellite, being...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
Pakistan punches above its weight for a low income country in a politically challenging region.

Riding China’s coattails but there’s always a bigger fish.
 
Congratulations, hopefully this can inspire children and the pessimists don’t ruin the vibe.
 

Pakistan's ICUBE-Q satellite successfully enters lunar orbit​


Pakistan's satellite ICUBE-Q was successfully launched into the lunar orbit on Wednesday after reaching the detach point via China's Chang'e-6 probe.

The satellite will now commence testing while in the lunar orbit. The Institute of Space Technology (IST) will conduct various tests over the next five to six days.

Dr Khurram Khurshid and Dr Qamarul Islam are currently in China to monitor the country's first lunar mission. Khurshid said communication and battery tests will also be conducted during ICUBE-Q's time in orbit.

It will take around a week to verify the operational readiness of the orbiter's imaging system, hence, the first images from the moon are expected by May 15 or 16. The sub-systems will also undergo testing during this time.

During the next phase, China's Chang'e-6 lander will touch down on the lunar surface and collect soil and rock samples from the moon's south pole.

The Chang'e 6 mission is scheduled to commence its return journey to Earth on June 4 and is expected to reach the planet on June 25.

Pakistan's space programme achieved a historic milestone on May 3 as the country's first-ever lunar orbiter lifted off from China's Henan Space Launch Site.

The quest to send a lunar orbiter started in 2022 when the China National Space Agency (CNSA), through the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), offered member states an opportunity to send a student-built payload to Earth's closest celestial neighbour onboard the Chang'e 6 mission.

The ICUBE-Q was submitted as a proposal for a lunar CubeSat by the IST. The proposal was selected after an evaluation process. The development of the payload was a collaborative effort between IST's students and faculty, SUPARCO and China's Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU).

The payload consists of three parts, the CubeSat, the separation mechanism, and the mounting bracket. The payload itself weighs around 7kgs. It carries two cameras to take images of the lunar surface and has other sensors and apparatuses for deep-space communication, altitude controls, and other functions.

tribune.com.pk

Pakistan's ICUBE-Q satellite successfully enters lunar orbit | The Express Tribune

First images from moon expected by May 15 or 16
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Pakistan should look to develop its own space program and rockets. It will take time and most importantly money.
 
Commendable albeit modest, the strides towards fostering a robust space program in Pakistan resonate with global endeavors, hopefully promising a formidable future for generations to come.

Although the current scale may seem diminutive amidst the vast expanse of global space exploration, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate such initiatives. Indeed, irrespective of the governing administration, every achievement retains its intrinsic value, contributing to the progression of Pakistani space program.

Undoubtedly, this represents the path forward for the Pakistani space program, offering the potential for remarkable success, hopefully.
 
Indians are making fun of Pakistan everywhere i.e. Pakistan promoting this moon mission as their own whereas in fact this is all China
 
Savak said:
Indians are making fun of Pakistan everywhere i.e. Pakistan promoting this moon mission as their own whereas in fact this is all China
Click to expand...
I don't see Indians trolling Pakistan much on X. The whole thing hasn't been hyped much by Pakistan.
 
Savak said:
Indians are making fun of Pakistan everywhere i.e. Pakistan promoting this moon mission as their own whereas in fact this is all China
Click to expand...
There is absolutely nothing to troll to be honest. It is a decent effort at the university level. These cube satellites parts are available off the shelf and anyone can buy it and assemble it and send it to a carrier.

How do I know about this? Around 15 years back we did a small project from our company as part of social responsibility effort. We worked with a small community college, a local university in USA and few students from South America to procure and launch one of of these satellites. We wrote control software which woukd analyze both remote sensing information and some rudimentary still images sent by the onboard sensors. Students developed the satellite and dod and state of Texas paid for the project. It was a really fun project

Good job but absolutely nothing to boast at the government level. It's good for whichever university did this
 
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Suparco to launch PAKSAT satellite on 30th

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) on Tuesday announced the launch of the country’s multi-mission communication satellite PAKSAT MM1 on May 30, from XiChang Satellite Launch Centre, China.

According to information shared by Suparco, PAKSAT MM1 was conceived keeping in sight growing needs of the country in the broad spectrum of communication and connectivity.

“This satellite project is the hallmark of technological cooperation between China and Pakistan,” Suparco said in a statement.

Based on advanced communication technologies, PAKSAT MM1 will play a pivotal role in the socio-economic uplift of the country. “It will prove to be a stepping-stone in the transformation of the country into digital Pakistan,” Suparco said.

The launching ceremony would be shown live from Islamabad and Karachi establishments of Suparco.

Assets in space

In its journey towards progress and prosperity, Suparco said it was essential to recognise the invaluable role that satellite technology played in shaping the nation’s future.

While some may question the necessity of investing in satellites, it was crucial to understand the wide-ranging benefits they brought to Pakistan and its people.

It said that by investing in satellite infrastructure, the country could attract investment, create high-tech jobs, and stimulate innovation, driving overall economic development.

“While the upfront costs of satellite development may seem daunting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the investment,” it said.

It said that Badr-A was designed and developed by the commission and it was launched on July 16, 1990 aboard a Chinese long March 2E rocket.

It marked Pakistan’s first indigenously developed and operational satellite. The low earth orbit (LEO) satellite was primarily designed for scientific research and technological demonstration.

It said that Badr-B was the country’s second indigenously developed satellite, launched on December 10, 2001, aboard a Zenit-2 rocket from Baikour Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It carried advanced instruments for earth observation, digital communications and environmental monitoring.

According to the space agency, PAKSAT-1 was a geostationary communications satellite operated by Pakistan.

SOURCE: DAWN NEWS
 
BouncerGuy said:
Suparco to launch PAKSAT satellite on 30th

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) on Tuesday announced the launch of the country’s multi-mission communication satellite PAKSAT MM1 on May 30, from XiChang Satellite Launch Centre, China.

According to information shared by Suparco, PAKSAT MM1 was conceived keeping in sight growing needs of the country in the broad spectrum of communication and connectivity.

“This satellite project is the hallmark of technological cooperation between China and Pakistan,” Suparco said in a statement.

Based on advanced communication technologies, PAKSAT MM1 will play a pivotal role in the socio-economic uplift of the country. “It will prove to be a stepping-stone in the transformation of the country into digital Pakistan,” Suparco said.

The launching ceremony would be shown live from Islamabad and Karachi establishments of Suparco.

Assets in space

In its journey towards progress and prosperity, Suparco said it was essential to recognise the invaluable role that satellite technology played in shaping the nation’s future.

While some may question the necessity of investing in satellites, it was crucial to understand the wide-ranging benefits they brought to Pakistan and its people.

It said that by investing in satellite infrastructure, the country could attract investment, create high-tech jobs, and stimulate innovation, driving overall economic development.

“While the upfront costs of satellite development may seem daunting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the investment,” it said.

It said that Badr-A was designed and developed by the commission and it was launched on July 16, 1990 aboard a Chinese long March 2E rocket.

It marked Pakistan’s first indigenously developed and operational satellite. The low earth orbit (LEO) satellite was primarily designed for scientific research and technological demonstration.

It said that Badr-B was the country’s second indigenously developed satellite, launched on December 10, 2001, aboard a Zenit-2 rocket from Baikour Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It carried advanced instruments for earth observation, digital communications and environmental monitoring.

According to the space agency, PAKSAT-1 was a geostationary communications satellite operated by Pakistan.

SOURCE: DAWN NEWS
Click to expand...

After ICUBE-Q, Pakistan launches modern communication satellite into space​


Pakistan launched its latest modern communication satellite, the PAKSAT MM1, into space on Thursday, weeks after its ICUBE-Qamar (ICUBE-Q) entered lunar orbit.

ICUBE-Q was launched into space on May 3 aboard China’s Chang’e-6 lunar mission from Hainan, China. A major milestone in Pakistan’s space exploration efforts, the satellite successfully entered the moon’s orbit on May 8, and shortly after began transmitting the first images to earth.

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the national space agency, now plans to launch another communication satellite with Chinese assistance.

“Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission will launch a new satellite PakSat MM1 on Thursday from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in China,” state broadcaster Radio Pakistan said.

“The satellite PakSat MM1 has been conceived keeping in view the growing needs of the country in the broad spectrum of communication and connectivity ... Based on advanced communication technologies, PakSat MM1 will play a pivotal role in the socio-economic uplift of the country and will prove to be a stepping stone in the transformation of the country into Digital Pakistan.”

Earlier this week, state media said the satellite would help usher in a digital era in Pakistan by helping provide Internet to remote areas, as per Suparco officials.

The launch ceremony would be broadcast live from Suparco’s offices in Islamabad and Karachi.

Established in 1961, Suparco manages Pakistan’s space program, enhancing the nation’s capabilities in satellite communications, remote sensing and meteorological science.

Chang’e 6 is a planned robotic Chinese and Pakistani lunar exploration mission that is attempting Beijing’s second sample return mission and aims to obtain the first-ever soil and rock samples from the lunar far side and return them to earth. The samples will contain material ejected from the lunar mantle and will be used to provide insight into the history of the moon, earth, and the solar system.

The primary phase of the mission is expected to last about 53 days. Around 100 students from Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology (IST) contributed to developing the ICUBE-Q satellite.

 
MenInG said:
Some good progress on the space front.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1796172005802230219
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China says its spacecraft lands on Moon's far side​


China says its uncrewed craft has successfully landed on the far side of the Moon - an unexplored place almost no-one tries to go.

The Chang'e 6 touched down in the South Pole-Aitken Basin at 06:23 Beijing time on Sunday morning (22:23 GMT Saturday), the China National Space Administration (CNSA) said.

Launched on 3 May, the mission aims to collect precious rock and soil from this region for the first time in history.

The probe could extract some of the Moon's oldest rocks from a huge crater on its South Pole.

The landing was fraught with risks, because it is very difficult to communicate with spacecraft once they reach the far side of the Moon. China is the only country to have achieved the feat before, landing its Chang'e-4 in 2019.

After launching from Wenchang Space Launch Center, the Chang'e 6 spacecraft had been orbiting the Moon waiting to land.

The lander component of the mission then separated from the orbiter to touch down on the side of the Moon that faces permanently away from Earth.

During the descent, an autonomous visual obstacle avoidance system was used to automatically detect obstacles, with a visible light camera selecting a comparatively safe landing area based on the brightness and darkness of the lunar surface, the CNSA was quoted as saying by state-run Xinhua news agency.

The lander hovered about 100m (328ft) above the safe landing area, and used a laser 3D scanner before a slow vertical descent.

The operation was supported by the Queqiao-2 relay satellite, the CNSA said.

Chinese state media described the successful landing as an “historic moment”.

The state broadcaster said “applause erupted at the Beijing Aerospace Flight Control Center” when the Chang’e landing craft touched down on the Moon early on Sunday morning.

The lander should spend up to three days gathering materials from the surface in an operation the CNSA said would involve "many engineering innovations, high risks and great difficulty".

"Everyone is very excited that we might get a look at these rocks no-one has ever seen before," explains Professor John Pernet-Fisher, who specialises in lunar geology at the University of Manchester.

He has analysed other lunar rock brought back on the American Apollo mission and previous Chinese missions.

But he says the chance to analyse rock from a completely different area of the Moon could answer fundamental questions about how planets form.

Most of the rocks collected so far are volcanic, similar to what we might find in Iceland or Hawaii.

But the material on the far side would have a different chemistry.

"It would help us answer those really big questions, like how are planets formed, why do crusts form, what is the origin of water in the solar system?" the professor says.

The mission aims to collect about 2kg (4.4lb) of material using a drill and mechanical arm, according to the CNSA.

The South Pole–Aitken basin, an impact crater, is one of the largest known in the solar system.

From there, the probe could gather material that came from deep inside the lunar mantle - the inner core of the Moon - Prof Pernet-Fisher says.

The Moon's South Pole is the next frontier in lunar missions - countries are keen to understand the region because there is a good chance it has ice.

www.bbc.com

China says its Chang'e-6 mission successfully landed on Moon's far side

The mission hopes to bring rocks back to Earth from the far side of the Moon for the first time.
www.bbc.com www.bbc.com
 
China's far-side Moon mission begins journey back

China says its lunar probe has successfully taken off from the far side of the moon to begin its journey back to Earth carrying the first samples ever collected from the region.

State media says the collecting module of the Chang'e-6 craft lifted off about 07:38 on Tuesday (23:38 GMT Monday) to begin the journey back.

On Sunday, the robot landed in a giant crater close to the moon's south pole in a world-first feat celebrated by the international science community.

China is the only country to have landed on the far side of the moon, having also done so before in 2019.

The Chinese National Space Administration (CNSA) described the mission's landing and lift-off as an ''unprecedented feat in human lunar exploration''.

The far or "dark" side of the moon - which faces away from Earth - is technically challenging to reach due to its distance, and its difficult terrain of giant, deep craters and few flat surfaces.

Space officials have had to use a satellite to direct and maintain communications with the Chang'e-6 craft.

China aims to be the first country to bring back rock and soil samples from the far side of the moon, which scientists say could be very different from rock formations on the near side.

State media published videos from China's space agency showing the Chang'e 6 craft sticking out a little arm and waving the Chinese flag after it collected the precious samples.

It is China's sixth mission to the moon, named after the moon goddess Chang'e in Chinese mythology.

Successful mission so far

The CNSA announced the sampling's conclusion on Tuesday saying the craft had "withstood the test of high temperature on the far side of the moon" and was now beginning its return.

Its ascender module successfully "lifted off from the lunar surface" on Tuesday with samples in a metal vacuum container.

After taking off, the module then entered a "pre-set orbit around the moon". The container will be transferred to a re-entry capsule set to return to Earth, landing in the desserts of Inner Mongolia around 25 June.

Chang'e-6 had spent two days gathering rocks and soil - using a mechanical arm and drill to collect about 2kg (4.4lb) of material.

It has been based in the South Pole-Aitken basin - a gigantic crater on the moon's far side which is one of the largest known in the solar system.

Directing the craft there had been fraught with risks because it is very difficult to communicate with spacecraft once they reach the far side of the Moon.

China's space authorities described the operation as involving "many engineering innovations, high risks and great difficulty".

Scientists are excited about the samples which could potentially be from some of the Moon's oldest rocks.

Those in China will be given the first chance to analyse the rocks, and later researchers around the world will be able to apply for the opportunity too.

"Everyone is very excited that we might get a look at these rocks no-one has ever seen before," Prof John Pernet-Fisher, a lunar geology specialist at the University of Manchester told the BBC last week.

He said the chance to analyse rock from a completely different area of the Moon could answer fundamental questions about how planets form.

The Moon's South Pole is the next frontier in lunar missions - countries are keen to understand the region because there is a good chance it has ice.

Access to water would significantly boost the chances of successfully establishing a human base on the Moon for scientific research.

This is China's second mission to collect samples from the moon- but it is the first aimed at extracting them from the far side.

In 2020, its Chang'e-5 craft brought back 1.7kg of material from an area called Oceanus Procellarum on the Moon's near side.

And the year prior, China became the first country to reach the far side of the moon with the landing of its Chang'e-4.

China is planning three more uncrewed missions this decade as it looks for water on the Moon and investigates setting up a permanent base there. The country already has its own space station known as Tiangong or Heavenly Palace.

Beijing's broader strategy aims to see a Chinese astronaut walk on the moon by around 2030.

The US also aims to put astronauts back on the moon, with Nasa aiming to launch its Artemis-3 mission in 2026.

BBC
 
China space probe returns with rare Moon rocks

China's lunar probe has returned to Earth with the first ever samples from the Moon's unexplored far side.

The Chang'e-6 landed in the Inner Mongolia desert on Tuesday, after a nearly two-month long mission which was fraught with risks.

Scientists are eagerly awaiting the Chang’e-6 as the samples could answer key questions about how planets are formed.

China is the only country to have landed on the far side of the Moon, having done so before in 2019.

The far side - which faces away from Earth - is technically challenging to reach due to its distance, and its difficult terrain of giant craters and few flat surfaces.

Scientists are interested in this less-explored side as it is hoped it may contain traces of ice, which can be harvested for water, oxygen, and hydrogen.

The Chang'e-6 mission is a source of pride for a nation which has stepped up its missions to the Moon - drawing attention from its rival, the US.

State media showed officials planting the Chinese flag with a flourish just after the Chang’e-6 capsule landed in the desert of Inner Mongolia.

China's President Xi Jinping has called to congratulate those at the command centre of the Chang’e-6 mission.

Mr Xi said he hopes they can carry on exploring deep space and "reaching new heights in unravelling the mysteries of the universe... to benefit humanity and advance the nation".

The Chang’e-6 blasted off from a space centre in early May, and successfully landed on a crater close to the Moon’s south pole a few weeks later. Its mission lasted 53 days.

The probe will be sent to Beijing and samples will be retrieved there, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

This is China's sixth mission to the Moon, and its second to the far side. The probe is named after the moon goddess Chang'e in Chinese mythology.

The probe used a drill and a robotic arm to scoop up soil and rocks, took some photos of the surface and planted a Chinese flag.

Catherine Heymans, the astronomer royal for Scotland, hoped the samples would help test theories about how the Moon was formed 4.5 billion years ago and whether it resulted from a collision with a very early version of the Earth.

“it’s incredibly exciting to see this landing successfully,” she told the BBC. “The geological activity on the Moon is very different on the near side and the far side and it’s been a big puzzle why we see those differences.”

She hoped the samples brought back would help researchers understand the composition of the centre of the Moon.

“Is it very similar to the Earth? Can that confirm our theory that the Earth and the Moon were once the same thing?”

Beijing has poured huge resources into its space programme over the past decade in an effort to catch up with both the US and Russia.

It aims to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and plans to eventually build a base on the lunar south pole.

The US also plans to put astronauts back on the Moon by 2026 with its Artemis 3 mission.

Analysts believe the next space race will not just be about putting people on the Moon – it will be about who is able to stake their claim and control lunar resources.

BBC
 
SUPARCO announces lunar mission partnership with China

Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with China for the 2028 Chang’e-8 lunar mission.

According to a SUPARCO spokesperson, the collaboration will mark Pakistan’s first involvement in lunar exploration, aiming to advance revolutionary research on the Moon.

As part of the Chang’e-8 mission, SUPARCO will contribute a 35-kilogram rover designed to explore the lunar south pole.

Set to land on the Moon in 2028, the Pakistani rover will play a vital role in the joint mission with China, enhancing lunar surface analysis and research capabilities, the spokesperson added.

Earlier in May this year, the iCube Qamar was launched on board China’s Chang’e-6 from Hainan, China, on May 3.

According to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), iCube Qamar entered Lunar orbit on May 8

CubeSats are miniature satellites typically characterized by their small size and standardized design. They are constructed in a cubic shape, consisting of modular components that adhere to specific size constraints.

These satellites often weigh no more than a few kilograms and are deployed in space for various purposes.

The primary purpose of cubesats is to facilitate scientific research, technology development, and educational initiatives in space exploration. These satellites are utilized for a wide range of missions, including Earth observations, remote sensing, atmospheric research, communications, astronomy, and technology demonstration.

arynews.tv

SUPARCO announces lunar mission partnership with China

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with China for the 2028 Chang’e-8
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
FearlessRoar said:
SUPARCO announces lunar mission partnership with China

Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with China for the 2028 Chang’e-8 lunar mission.

According to a SUPARCO spokesperson, the collaboration will mark Pakistan’s first involvement in lunar exploration, aiming to advance revolutionary research on the Moon.

As part of the Chang’e-8 mission, SUPARCO will contribute a 35-kilogram rover designed to explore the lunar south pole.

Set to land on the Moon in 2028, the Pakistani rover will play a vital role in the joint mission with China, enhancing lunar surface analysis and research capabilities, the spokesperson added.

Earlier in May this year, the iCube Qamar was launched on board China’s Chang’e-6 from Hainan, China, on May 3.

According to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), iCube Qamar entered Lunar orbit on May 8

CubeSats are miniature satellites typically characterized by their small size and standardized design. They are constructed in a cubic shape, consisting of modular components that adhere to specific size constraints.

These satellites often weigh no more than a few kilograms and are deployed in space for various purposes.

The primary purpose of cubesats is to facilitate scientific research, technology development, and educational initiatives in space exploration. These satellites are utilized for a wide range of missions, including Earth observations, remote sensing, atmospheric research, communications, astronomy, and technology demonstration.

arynews.tv

SUPARCO announces lunar mission partnership with China

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with China for the 2028 Chang’e-8
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...
Once again their iCube will be loaded onto their "Qamar" to take it to the moon.... more like an Uber ride lol!
 
SUPARCO set to launch indigenous electro-optical satellite

Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the upcoming launch of its indigenous electro-optical satellite, EO-1, on January 17.

According to a SUPARCO spokesman, the EO-1 satellite has been designed to provide critical data for disaster response, agriculture, and urban planning. It will also assist in ensuring food security and water management, while enhancing the country’s ability to monitor its natural resources.

“Pakistan’s indigenous EO-1 satellite is a significant step in space innovation,” said the spokesperson

According to SUPARCO, the satellite will enhance nationwide monitoring of natural resources and the mission will strengthen Pakistan’s space program and technological advancements.

Earlier in May 2024, Pakistan’s first multi-mission satellite, PAKSAT MM1 was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in China.

The PAKSAT-MM1 is placed 36,000 kilometers above the earth’s surface. According to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the satellite has a lifespan of 15 years and is equipped with the latest communication technology.

“The satellite will not only breathe new life into the communication system but will also provide the fastest internet facility. Improvement in the communication system will boost e-commerce, economic activities, and e-governance,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said while congratulating the nation.

arynews.tv

SUPARCO set to launch indigenous electro-optical satellite

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the upcoming launch of its indigenous electro-optical
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Pakistan’s indigenous lunar rover set to be part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission

Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and China National Space Administration (CNSA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to leap into deep space exploration.

The MoU was signed in the presence of the Presidents of Pakistan and China Asif Ali Zardari and Xi Jinping respectively on Thursday.

According to the SUPARCO, the MoU paves the way for Pakistan’s first indigenous lunar rover to be part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission, set for launch in 2028.

The Chang’e-8 mission, developed and implemented by CNSA, is designed to autonomously conduct in-situ scientific exploration, technology verification, lunar surface mapping, and resource utilisation.

The SUPARCO said that Pakistan’s participation in this mission marks a significant milestone in the country’s space program and its contribution to the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative.

SUPARCO’s lunar rover will be deployed at the Moon’s south pole, a region of immense scientific interest due to its unique environment and potential for future human exploration.

The rover will carry advanced scientific payloads developed by SUPARCO. The Rover will also carry an internationally designed scientific payload created through collaboration between Chinese and European scientists.

This combined effort will enhance the mission’s capability to conduct in-depth analysis of the lunar surface.
SUPARCO’s scientists and engineers have independently designed, manufactured, assembled, integrated, and tested the rover, demonstrating Pakistan’s growing expertise in space technology.

Once deployed, Pakistani scientists will control and operate the rover from Earth, further enhancing the country’s role in lunar exploration.

Pakistan’s lunar rover will contribute to several key scientific and technological objectives, including studying lunar soil composition and its potential for resource utilization and mapping the lunar surface to assist in future exploration missions.

This would also help studying radiation levels and plasma properties on the lunar surface to assess potential impacts on future exploration and human presence and testing new technologies for long-term lunar operations and sustainable human presence.

This collaboration between SUPARCO and CNSA highlights the strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and China and their shared vision for deep space exploration.

It also reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to advancing its national space program and contributing to global scientific research.

arynews.tv

Pakistan's indigenous lunar rover set to be part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission

BEIJING: Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and China National Space Administration (CNSA) signed a Memorandum of
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday.

The development follows after Pakistan and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) allowing Pakistan’s first lunar rover to be part of China’s Chang’E 8 mission.

The Chang’E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will focus on robotic exploration of the lunar south pole.

To engage the public in this historic venture, SUPARCO has opened a nationwide competition to name the Pakistan moon rover. The winner will receive a reward of Rs100,000.

The rover, developed by SUPARCO, will be deployed at the lunar south pole. It will carry advanced scientific payloads designed by Pakistani scientists, along with a collaborative scientific payload developed by Chinese and European researchers.


arynews.tv

Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday. The
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Cricket Warrior said:
Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday.

The development follows after Pakistan and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) allowing Pakistan’s first lunar rover to be part of China’s Chang’E 8 mission.

The Chang’E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will focus on robotic exploration of the lunar south pole.

To engage the public in this historic venture, SUPARCO has opened a nationwide competition to name the Pakistan moon rover. The winner will receive a reward of Rs100,000.

The rover, developed by SUPARCO, will be deployed at the lunar south pole. It will carry advanced scientific payloads designed by Pakistani scientists, along with a collaborative scientific payload developed by Chinese and European researchers.


arynews.tv

Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday. The
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...

Amazing.

All the best. May it go well.
 
Congratulations.

Can't do the "India has a flag on the moon but Pakistan has a moon on the flag" jibe anymore. ;)
 
Cricket Warrior said:
Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday.

The development follows after Pakistan and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) allowing Pakistan’s first lunar rover to be part of China’s Chang’E 8 mission.

The Chang’E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will focus on robotic exploration of the lunar south pole.

To engage the public in this historic venture, SUPARCO has opened a nationwide competition to name the Pakistan moon rover. The winner will receive a reward of Rs100,000.

The rover, developed by SUPARCO, will be deployed at the lunar south pole. It will carry advanced scientific payloads designed by Pakistani scientists, along with a collaborative scientific payload developed by Chinese and European researchers.


arynews.tv

Pakistan announces launch its first lunar mission

Pakistan’s first moon rover mission is set to launch in 2028, announced Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday. The
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...
Good to see Suparco finally waking up to reality and trying to do what others have done like 6 decades ago
 
Congratulations to all the Pakistani patriots. Development and progress is the only way to go and there is not an ounce of doubt about the fact that a prosperous Pakistan can really trigger start large scale progress in the entire subcontinent.

Keep it going.
We will cheer for you along the way.
 
Pakistan to send first astronaut to space station soon: PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan will launch its first space-manned expedition to China’s space station in partnership with the friendly country.

Speaking at a ceremony following the signing of a cooperation agreement between China Manned Space Agency and Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPPARCO), the prime minister praised the Chinese government for yet another excellent move to strengthen bilateral cooperation in this area.

PM Shehbaz said that under the dynamic leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping, not only the space programme is progressing speedily but also mega projects in other sectors were built in Pakistan under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which had really transformed the country’s landscape.

PM Shehbaz said that Pakistan’s participation in the China Space Station programme reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and will contribute to mutual knowledge-sharing and the broader vision of peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

Under the agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at the Astronaut Center of China. One selected astronaut shall be trained as a scientific payload specialist, preparing for specialized research aboard the China Space Station (CSS). The astronaut selection process will be completed by 2026, with the aim of flying in an upcoming mission as per CSS planning.

The first national astronaut’s mission at CSS will involve conducting cutting-edge scientific experiments in various fields, including biological and medical sciences, aerospace, applied physics, fluid mechanics, space radiation, ecology, material sciences, microgravity studies, and astronomy.

Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal termed the agreement a historic milestone, underscoring its role in accelerating technological innovation, capacity building, and research. He stated that the collaboration with China extends beyond astronaut training, laying the groundwork for Pakistan’s long-term growth in human spaceflight and exploration.

Director General of China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), Dr Lin Xinqiang expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, reaffirming China’s dedication to strengthening international cooperation in space exploration.

He highlighted that Pakistan’s participation in the China Space Station program reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and will contribute to mutual knowledge-sharing and the broader vision of peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

Chairman SUPPARCO Mohammad Yousaf Khan regarded the agreement as a landmark in Pakistan’s space journey, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and technological progress.

He invited youth, professionals, and academia to actively participate in Pakistan’s astronaut program, encouraging them to contribute to the nation’s space exploration efforts through research, innovation, and skill development.

arynews.tv

Pakistan to send first astronaut to space station soon: PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan will launch its first space-manned expedition to China's space station in partnership
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
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