In a major technological breakthrough, Pakistan launched its latest Remote Sensing Satellite from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center on Thursday. The launch signals Pakistan’s growing capabilities in space technology and strengthens its Earth observation systems. The satellite was developed in partnership with SUPARCO, China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), and MICROSAT China. Officials hailed it as a crucial step toward national development and self-reliance in space-based data services.
The satellite is equipped with advanced imaging technology to monitor urban areas, farmlands, and disaster zones. It will support Pakistan’s efforts in precision agriculture, environmental protection, food security, and water management. According to SUPARCO, the satellite will also track glacier retreat, deforestation, and climate change impacts. It will help improve planning for natural disaster response, including floods, earthquakes, and landslides.
✨ Alhamdulillah!
Another URAAN of Pakistan!
With the successful launch of our 4th Earth Observation Satellite from XiChang, China, Pakistan Space Programme has once again soared to new heights.
Congratulations to the people of Pakistan!
Today marks another proud moment for… pic.twitter.com/4s6iy7alsT— Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) July 31, 2025
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal congratulated the nation and praised SUPARCO’s engineers and scientists. He thanked China for its support and confirmed the satellite has reached its planned orbit. Iqbal reaffirmed Pakistan’s space ambitions, announcing plans to send a Pakistani astronaut into space by 2026. He also shared the goal of landing a Pakistani lunar mission on the moon by 2035.
SUPARCO Chairman Mohammad Yousaf Khan said the new satellite sets the groundwork for a strong national Earth Observation System. He noted that it will serve multiple sectors including transportation, land use, and infrastructure monitoring. The satellite’s data will aid regional development projects, especially the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Its high-resolution imagery will be crucial for strategic planning.
Pakistan’s space program has accelerated in recent months. Earlier this year, China launched Pakistan’s EO-1 satellite focused on disaster prediction. In May 2024, Pakistan’s first lunar satellite flew aboard China’s Chang’E-6 mission. Looking ahead, Pakistan aims to participate in China’s Chang’E-8 mission in 2028, which will carry its first lunar rover. These missions reflect a clear vision for future space exploration.