A spokesperson from the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) announced on Tuesday that Pakistan’s Multi-Mission Communication Satellite, PAKSAT MM1, is set to launch on Thursday.
Suparco scientists and engineers are currently inspecting PAKSAT MM1, according to the spokesperson.
The launch will occur at the XiChang Satellite Launch Centre (XSLC) in China, as part of the National Space Programme 2047, the national space agency stated.
Suparco explained that PAKSAT MM1 was developed as a joint venture between Suparco and the Chinese aerospace industry to address the country’s increasing communication and connectivity needs.
“This satellite project is a hallmark of technological cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and Pakistan,” the statement read.
The statement added that the satellite, which is based on advanced communication technologies, will play a crucial role in the socio-economic development of the country.
“It will prove to be a stepping stone in the transformation of the country into Digital Pakistan,” Suparco said.
The research commission also mentioned that the launching ceremony will be broadcast live for the media from its establishments in Karachi and Islamabad.
Notably, Pakistan has previously launched at least six assets into space, including BADR-A, BADR-B, PAKSAT 1-R, PRSS-1, PakTes 1-A, and iCube Qamar.
Earlier this month, iCube-Qamar, Pakistan’s first satellite mission to the moon, sent back the first-ever images of the moon captured from lunar orbit following its ascent into space.
In a groundbreaking development, Qamar became the first Pakistani satellite to enter lunar orbit, completing its rotation in 12 hours, according to IST. Scientists hailed this achievement as “a great success overall.”
