In a significant leap for its space program, Pakistan is set to launch a new remote sensing satellite from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC) on July 31, 2025. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has confirmed that this mission marks a vital advancement in the country’s Earth observation and space technology capabilities.
This Pakistan remote sensing satellite is designed to deliver high-resolution imagery and data under a variety of environmental conditions. Its primary focus is to aid in national development, environmental monitoring, and disaster risk management. By expanding Pakistan’s fleet of space-based assets, the launch aligns with SUPARCO’s satellite launch goals under the National Space Policy and Vision 2047 strategy.
The upcoming launch builds on the foundation laid by two earlier satellite missions—PRSS-1, which was launched in July 2018, and EO-1, launched earlier this year in January 2025. Together, these satellites form a robust network for Earth observation, allowing Pakistan to monitor changes in its environment, improve decision-making, and contribute to sustainable development.
Among the key applications of the Pakistan remote sensing satellite will be support for precision agriculture to improve crop yields, mapping of urban development and infrastructure, and tracking environmental issues such as glacier retreat, deforestation, and land degradation. The satellite will also play a pivotal role in disaster preparedness, offering early warnings for floods, earthquakes, and landslides through near real-time data collection.
In addition to environmental and agricultural uses, the new satellite will enhance national projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by enabling accurate mapping of transportation networks and identification of geohazard-prone zones. This geospatial intelligence will help planners, engineers, and emergency response units make faster and more accurate decisions.
SUPARCO satellite launch officials have emphasized the broader strategic importance of this mission, stating that it represents Pakistan’s commitment to building a resilient and technologically advanced future. With the continuous expansion of its satellite infrastructure, Pakistan aims to take a more prominent role in the global space technology landscape.
As international collaborations in space exploration continue to grow, the partnership with China for this launch once again highlights the strong technological cooperation between the two nations. The launch from XSLC also benefits from China’s advanced launch facilities and proven record in supporting international satellite missions.
The Pakistan remote sensing satellite will not only serve national interests but also contribute to regional environmental and resource management efforts. With global attention increasingly focused on climate change, food security, and sustainable urbanization, Pakistan’s enhanced Earth observation capabilities come at a critical time.
