In a major stride toward technological advancement, Pakistan satellite launch efforts hit a new high with the successful deployment of its latest remote sensing satellite from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. The mission, led by Pakistan’s national space agency Suparco, was conducted in collaboration with China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) and MICROSAT China.
This marks the fifth operational satellite in Pakistan’s space fleet, reinforcing the country’s capacity in remote sensing, Earth observation, and disaster response. The accomplishment was praised by Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, who described it as a “proud moment” that highlights the prowess of Pakistani engineers and scientists and further solidifies Pakistan-China space cooperation.
The newly launched satellite is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging systems, enabling precise monitoring of agriculture, urban development, and environmental hazards. It will also play a vital role in predicting and mitigating natural disasters, such as floods, landslides, and glacier melt, especially in the wake of increasing climate-related challenges in the region.
Boost to CPEC and National Planning
Officials from Suparco stated that this Pakistan satellite launch is more than just a technological success—it is a strategic asset. The satellite is expected to support geospatial surveillance of critical initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), improve regional planning, and assist in resource management efforts across the country.
With advanced capabilities in data acquisition and night-time imaging, the satellite will contribute to national goals in remote sensing, sustainable development, and precision agriculture. It will also identify transportation corridors and potential geographic threats, helping both civilian and military agencies in long-term planning.
Vision 2047: A National Space Milestone
The satellite is part of Pakistan’s long-term National Space Policy and Vision 2047, a roadmap for space exploration and technology development. This vision includes ambitious goals such as sending a Pakistani astronaut into space with Chinese assistance by 2026, and eventually, pursuing a Moon mission by 2035.
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the satellite’s significance, saying, “This launch is another URAAN for Pakistan—an inspiring leap forward. With China’s unwavering support, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also hailed the development, calling it a “milestone in technological progress,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to innovation and international cooperation in space.
Building on Past Successes
This most recent satellite launch from Pakistan comes after a string of successes. Suparco has expanded its satellite program substantially since the 2011 launch of PakSat-1R. PRSS-1 and PakTES-1A were introduced in 2018, and PakSat-MM1 helped the nation reach significant internet connection milestones in 2024. Early in 2025, Pakistan also launched EO-1, its first totally domestic satellite that was created by local expertise.
The student-built iCube Qamar, which captured stunning images of the Moon, also made headlines, adding momentum to Pakistan’s journey in remote sensing and space innovation.
