Suparco successfully launches Pakistan's first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite

• Satellite "delivers timely updates on floods, landslides, earthquakes".
• Suparco Chairman expresses gratitude for govt’s unwavering support.
• "Milestone strengthens Pakistan’s capabilities in space-based observation."

Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) successfully launched on Friday the country's first indigenous Electro Optical Satellite (EOS) from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre (JSLC), China.

"This remarkable milestone marks a giant leap forward in Pakistan’s journey toward self-reliance and technological excellence in space exploration," said Suparco, the national space agency of Pakistan,

It said that the successful launch of the satellite represents the expertise and dedication of Suparco's engineers and scientists, showcasing their commitment to advancing space technology.

"This milestone strengthens Pakistan’s capabilities in space-based observation, enabling effective monitoring and management of natural resources, disaster response, urban planning and agricultural development," the commission added.

The satellite reportedly delivers timely updates on floods, landslides, and earthquakes for effective response.

On this significant occasion, Suparco Chairman Muhammad Yousaf Khan expressed gratitude for the government’s unwavering support. 

He commended the hard work and dedication of Suparco’s engineers, highlighting that the launch reflects the country’s commitment to harnessing space technology for national progress and sustainable development.

The commission emphasised that the satellite provides valuable insights across various other sectors besides natural disasters. In agriculture, it supports precision farming, irrigation management, and crop yield prediction. For urban planning, it facilitates monitoring infrastructure growth and managing urban sprawl. 

In environmental management, the satelite tracks deforestation, glacier recession, and water resources. Furthermore, it aids in monitoring and conserving natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas reserves. These capabilities make the satellite an essential tool for sustainable development and informed decision-making.

The successful launch represents a crucial step in Pakistan’s journey towards space technology excellence and reinforces SUPARCO’s role as a key contributor to the nation’s socio-economic growth through innovative space solutions.

"The hard work and dedication of Suparco scientists and engineers have brought us to this proud moment. Our indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-1) on the launcher, marking a significant step forward," a spokesperson of the Suparco said. 

'Momentous milestone'

The Pakistan Army termed the launch of Indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) Satellite a "momentous milestone in Pakistan's space journey", according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

"The EO-1 satellite offers substantial benefits across various sectors in Pakistan. In agriculture, it will enable precision farming by monitoring crops, assessing irrigation needs, predicting yields, and supporting food security initiatives. For urban development planning, the satellite will assist in tracking infrastructure growth and, managing urban sprawl," a statement said.

In environmental monitoring and disaster management, it added, the satellite would provide timely updates on floods, landslides, earthquakes, deforestation, and land erosion. "Additionally, it will support monitoring of minerals, oil and gas fields, glacier recession, and water resources."

"This achievement is set to position advanced space technology capabilities at the forefront of national progress and development, aligning with the goals of National Space Policy," the ISPR concluded.