Pakistan has successfully launched its first homegrown Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on Friday from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s space exploration efforts.
The EO-1 satellite, equipped with electro-optical sensors, is designed to capture data and images of the Earth’s surface by detecting reflected sunlight or emitted radiation. This satellite is expected to enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in monitoring natural resources, disaster management, and improving agricultural and urban development, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).
Suparco Chairman Muhammad Yousaf Khan expressed gratitude to the government for its support and commended the efforts of Suparco engineers in bringing the project to fruition. He highlighted that the launch is a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to utilizing space technology for national progress and sustainable development.
The EO-1 satellite will provide valuable data for various sectors, such as:
- Agriculture: It will assist with precision farming, irrigation management, and crop yield forecasting.
- Urban Planning: It will help monitor infrastructure growth and manage urban sprawl.
- Environmental Management: It will track deforestation, glacier melting, and water resources.
- Disaster Management: It will provide critical data on floods, landslides, and earthquakes to enhance response efforts.
Additionally, the satellite will contribute to monitoring and conserving natural resources, such as minerals, oil, and gas.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed pride in the achievement, noting that the launch represents a significant leap for Pakistan’s space capabilities. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called the launch a significant step in Pakistan’s space journey, emphasizing the government’s dedication to peaceful space technology initiatives.
This success follows the launch of Pakistan’s communication satellite, PakSat-MM1, last May, and Suparco’s partnership with China for lunar exploration planned for 2028. The EO-1 launch demonstrates Pakistan’s growing space technology expertise and aligns with its National Space Policy.
The global earth observation satellite market, currently valued at $5 billion, is growing rapidly, with projections to exceed $8 billion by 2033, with countries like the U.S., China, and India also expanding their satellite capabilities.
