By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to make a landmark advancement in its space exploration efforts with the launch of its first indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on January 17. The satellite, developed by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), will be launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China, as reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). This milestone underscores Pakistan’s progress in space science and its expanding technological capabilities.
The EO-1 satellite is designed to serve multiple critical functions, particularly in disaster management and natural resource monitoring. It aims to enhance Pakistan’s ability to predict and respond to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides. By providing real-time data, the satellite will play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of these events and supporting relief operations.
In addition to disaster management, the satellite will significantly contribute to Pakistan’s sustainable development initiatives. It will assist in monitoring agricultural productivity, predicting crop yields, and assessing irrigation requirements, thereby bolstering food security efforts. The EO-1 will also support urban development by tracking infrastructure growth and addressing challenges posed by urban sprawl. Furthermore, it will aid in environmental monitoring by assessing issues such as deforestation, air quality, and glacier recession, while also identifying opportunities for the conservation and sustainable use of mineral, oil, and gas resources.
This launch is part of a broader strategy by SUPARCO to enhance Pakistan’s space capabilities. The EO-1 satellite follows several recent advancements, including Pakistan’s participation in international lunar missions. In May 2024, Pakistan successfully launched its first lunar satellite aboard China’s Chang’e-6 mission, designed to explore the moon’s far side.
