Pakistan’s Space Agency SPARCO Launches First Locally Made Satellite into Space

Islamabad:Pakistan’s space agency, SPARCO, achieved a significant milestone on Friday by sending its first indigenously developed satellite into space. The launch took place from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, where Pakistan’s Remote Sensing Satellite-Electro Optical One (PRSC-EO 1) was sent into orbit, along with two other satellites aboard China’s Long March 2D rocket.

The satellite launch was showcased in a video from the Satellite Research and Development Center in Lahore, highlighting the successful deployment of EO 1 into space.

SPARCO spokesperson, Hassam Khan, elaborated on the satellite’s purpose, stating that the PRSC-EO 1 is designed for Earth observation, which is crucial for monitoring a country’s terrestrial resources. Such surveillance enables informed decision-making, effective planning, and the ability to manage unforeseen circumstances promptly.

Khan also mentioned that very few countries in the world have the technological capability to develop such application satellites. However, with the successful launch of EO 1, Pakistan has now joined the select group of countries that have managed to build such advanced satellites.

Regarding the benefits, Khan explained that the satellite will provide significant advantages in social and economic sectors. It will enhance the country’s ability to manage natural resources, predict and respond to natural disasters, and improve urban planning and agricultural development. The satellite will offer accurate and up-to-date data on food security, deforestation, environmental monitoring, water resources, glacier observation, and other critical areas, which will play a vital role in planning and controlling these sectors.

PRSC-EO 1 uses electro-optical sensors to capture Earth’s surface images and data, relying on sunlight or emitted radiation for information gathering.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the achievement, stating that the satellite launch under SPARCO’s leadership demonstrates Pakistan’s growing capabilities in space science and technology. He called the success a major milestone for the country, which will further strengthen Pakistan’s developmental potential, especially in natural resource monitoring, disaster management, and other key areas.