Latest news with #Chang'E8


Business Recorder
28-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan to launch new remote-sensing satellite from China
ISLAMABAD: The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) announced on Sunday that it will be launching a new remote-sensing satellite from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center on July 31, aimed at bolstering the country's capabilities in resource monitoring and disaster management. The launching, according SUPARCO, will mark a significant advancement in Pakistan's space programme, enhancing Earth observation and supporting diverse national applications. SUPARCO highlighted that the satellite would aid precision agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, urban planning, and regional development. First made-in-Pakistan satellite to be launched on 17th It said that the satellite will also strengthen disaster management systems by providing timely alerts for floods, landslides, and earthquakes. Additionally, it will monitor environmental changes such as glacier recession and deforestation, while mapping transportation networks and identifying geo-hazard risks. In a statement, SUPARCO said, 'The launch of this remote sensing satellite, alongside its integration with Pakistan's existing fleet - including PRSS-1 (launched July 2018) and EO-1 (launched January 2025) - will enhance the nation's space-based infrastructure in line with the National Space Policy and SUPARCO's Vision 2047, aiming to position Pakistan as a regional leader in space technology and innovation.' The satellite's advanced data acquisition capabilities under varied environmental conditions make it an important tool for environmental monitoring and resource management. Pakistan has made notable progress in its space research efforts in recent months. Earlier this year, China launched Pakistan's indigenously developed Electro-Optical satellite EO-1 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, aimed at disaster prediction and resource management. In November last year, SUPARCO revealed plans to send its lunar rover as part of China's Chang'E 8 mission slated for 2028. Moreover, in May 2024, Pakistan launched its first lunar satellite aboard China's Chang'E-6 probe, targeting the moon's far side - a feat China pioneered. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Express Tribune
18-02-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Name Pakistan's first lunar rover and win Rs 100,000 cash
Listen to article Whether you prefer 'Sabz Qamar', 'Pak-Chaand', or 'Jinnah-Rover' to name Pakistan's first Lunar rover, the best name could let you win a cash prize, a certificate and nation-wide honor. In a press release, Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO),announced a nationwide contest to name country's first lunar rover. Pakistan's first-ever lunar rover is set to be launched as part of China's Chang'E 8 mission in 2028. To celebrate this achievement and engage the nation, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a nationwide contest. The Moon has fascinated humanity for centuries, serving as a stepping stone for deeper space exploration. It holds valuable resources, such as water ice and rare minerals, which could support future space missions. A Lunar Rover plays a crucial role in exploring the Moon's surface, navigating harsh terrain, conducting scientific experiments, and transmitting critical data back to Earth. By studying the Moon, scientists can gain insights into Earth's history, planetary evolution, and the potential for sustaining life beyond our planet. Pakistan first mobile robot to Moon SUPARCO's rover, with an approximate weight of 35 kilograms, will join China's Chang'E 8 mission, which is part of the larger International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project. The rover is set to land on the lunar south pole, a region known for its challenging terrain and potential scientific discoveries. This mission aims to explore the Moon's surface, conduct scientific research, and test innovative technologies for future lunar and planetary exploration. The mission will involve a series of scientific experiments, including the study of lunar soil, mapping of the lunar surface, and the testing of new technologies for sustainable human presence on the Moon. SUPARCO's rover, equipped with state-of-the-art scientific instruments, will play a crucial role in collecting data that could pave the way for future lunar missions. This collaboration with China highlights the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and their shared vision for space exploration. Under the theme 'Name Pakistan's Lunar Rover,' the contest encourages public participation in the country's space journey. It is open to students, space enthusiasts, and the general public across Pakistan. Participants can submit a unique and meaningful name along with a brief explanation of their choice. The winner will receive national recognition. Pakistan's entry into lunar exploration is a significant milestone, and this contest allows every citizen to be a part of this historic journey. For more details, visit


Express Tribune
06-02-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Pakistan, China join forces for lunar mission in 2028
Listen to article Pakistan and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) allowing Pakistan's first lunar rover to be part of China's Chang'E 8 mission, SUPARCO announced on Thursday. The Chang'E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will focus on robotic exploration of the lunar south pole. Last year, SUPARCO had announced its rover would be part of the mission, but the formal agreement was finalised during President Asif Ali Zardari's visit to China this week. 'Pakistan has made a significant leap in deep space exploration with the signing of a historic MoU between SUPARCO and the China National Space Administration (CNSA),' the press release said. The agreement marks a major milestone for Pakistan's space programme, contributing to the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative. The rover, developed by SUPARCO, will be deployed at the lunar south pole. It will carry advanced scientific payloads designed by Pakistani scientists, along with a collaborative scientific payload developed by Chinese and European researchers. This combined effort aims to enhance the mission's capability to conduct detailed analyses of the lunar surface. According to the statement, Pakistani scientists will operate the rover remotely from Earth, conducting studies on lunar soil composition, radiation levels, plasma properties, and testing new technologies for sustainable human presence on the Moon. In May 2022, Pakistan launched its first lunar satellite aboard China's Chang'e-6 probe, which successfully landed on the Moon's South Pole-Aitken Basin. The mission returned samples to Earth in June, making China the first to bring back samples from the Moon's far side. The cooperation between Pakistan and China in space exploration highlights the growing partnership between the two countries in scientific and technological advancements.