SUPARCO to Launch Pakistan’s Indigenously Developed Satellite on January 17

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the historic launch of Pakistan’s indigenously developed satellite, the Electro-Optical One (EO-1), on January 17. The satellite will be launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in China, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space exploration journey.

The Electro-Optical One satellite, entirely developed in Pakistan by SUPARCO, underscores the nation’s growing capabilities in advanced Earth observation and space technology. This achievement highlights Pakistan’s strides toward self-reliance in space science and innovation, aligning with the goals outlined in the National Space Policy.

Advancing National Development – A Leap in Space Technology

The EO-1 satellite is an advanced imaging satellite designed to capture high-resolution optical images of Earth. It is expected to bring substantial benefits across multiple sectors, including natural disaster management, agriculture, urban development, and natural resource monitoring.

Agriculture: The satellite will enable precision farming by monitoring crop health, assessing irrigation needs, predicting yields, and supporting food security initiatives.
Urban Development: EO-1 will assist in tracking infrastructure growth, managing urban sprawl, and facilitating city and regional planning efforts.
Disaster Management: The satellite will provide timely updates on natural disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, and land erosion, enhancing response capabilities.
Natural Resource Monitoring: EO-1 will support sustainable development by tracking minerals, oil and gas fields, glacier recession, and water resources.

SUPARCO emphasized that this achievement demonstrates Pakistan’s dedication and expertise in advancing technological capabilities in space science. The EO-1 launch follows the successful deployment of the PakSat-MM1 multi-mission communication satellite in May last year, which improved internet and communication infrastructure. SUPARCO also joined China’s Chang’e 8 lunar exploration mission, set for 2028, further solidifying its position in the global space community.

Looking Ahead

The launch of EO-1 is expected to pave the way for further advancements in scientific research and national development. SUPARCO’s efforts in building an indigenous space program highlight the transformative potential of space technology in addressing key challenges and driving economic growth in Pakistan.