Latest news with #NationalSpacePolicy
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Science
- Express Tribune
Pakistan to launch remote sensing satellite today
Pakistan's latest remote sensing satellite is set to be launched into space early Thursday morning, marking a significant step forward in the country's space research and disaster management capabilities. The launch is scheduled to take place between 6:30am and 7:15am (Pakistan Standard Time) from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center, according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). This new satellite is designed for research and earth observation, and will provide critical support in monitoring natural disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, glacier melting, and deforestation. It will enhance the country's capacity for early warning and effective disaster response. Beyond disaster management, the satellite will aid in agricultural monitoring, urban planning, infrastructure development, and mapping of transportation networks. It will also serve as a valuable tool in tracking environmental changes and supporting major national initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by identifying geographical hazards and enhancing resource management. SUPARCO stated that the satellite aligns with Pakistan's National Space Policy and the Vision 2047 roadmap, which aims to elevate the country into the ranks of technologically advanced nations through innovation in space technology. In a parallel development, India's space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) launched its own satellite on Wednesday evening from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota. Dubbed "NISAR", this satellite is focused on studying ecosystems, climate patterns, and natural hazards. Pakistan's remote sensing satellite, SUPARCO says, represents a milestone in strengthening the country's research-based satellite infrastructure and signifies a commitment to peaceful space exploration and technological advancement.
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Science
- Express Tribune
Pakistan to launch remote sensing satellite from China today
Listen to article Pakistan's latest remote sensing satellite is set to be launched into space early Thursday morning, marking a significant step forward in the country's space research and disaster management capabilities. The launch is scheduled to take place between 6:30 am and 7:15 am (Pakistan Standard Time) from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center, according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). This new satellite is designed for research and earth observation, and will provide critical support in monitoring natural disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, glacier melting, and deforestation. It will enhance the country's capacity for early warning and effective disaster response. Read More: Pakistan eyes improved disaster response with new satellite Beyond disaster management, the satellite will aid in agricultural monitoring, urban planning, infrastructure development, and mapping of transportation networks. It will also serve as a valuable tool in tracking environmental changes and supporting major national initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by identifying geographical hazards and enhancing resource management. SUPARCO stated that the satellite aligns with Pakistan's National Space Policy and the Vision 2047 roadmap, which aims to elevate the country into the ranks of technologically advanced nations through innovation in space technology. In a parallel development, India's space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) launched its own satellite on Wednesday evening from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota. Dubbed "NISAR", this satellite is focused on studying ecosystems, climate patterns, and natural hazards. Pakistan's remote sensing satellite, SUPARCO says, represents a milestone in strengthening the country's research-based satellite infrastructure and signifies a commitment to peaceful space exploration and technological advancement.
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- 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
Muscat Daily
4 days ago
- Science
- Muscat Daily
Oman's astronomical heritage fuels modern space aspirations
Muscat – Oman's deep-rooted tradition in astronomy, once vital for agriculture, seafaring and daily life, is now helping lay the foundation for scientific advancement in the fields of astronomy and space science. At the heart of this effort is Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, which continues to promote astronomical awareness through public lectures, observation nights and collaboration with educational institutions. Its initiatives are aimed at nurturing scientific curiosity and integrating astronomy into school curricula, in line with the country's National Space Policy. Among the key facilities contributing to this effort is the Al Saa'a Observatory in Muscat. Often referred to as the Clock Observatory, it is used to study planetary motion and serves as a learning centre for students and astronomy enthusiasts. The society also supports researchers by providing access to material and resources needed to advance local astronomical studies. Historically, astronomy played a crucial role in Omani society. Traditional water-sharing systems, such as the falaj irrigation method, relied on sundials known as Al Lamd to schedule water distribution during the day. At night, farmers turned to the stars to manage shares, with celestial markers like Al Munsif signalling the halfway point of an athar, a unit of time roughly equal to 30 minutes. Oman's mountainous regions, such as Jabal Akhdar, illustrate how knowledge of solar angles was applied in terrace farming to optimise crop yield. Meanwhile, sailors used constellations to navigate the open sea. Names such as Ahmed bin Majid al Saadi and Nasser bin Ali al Khadhouri stand out among the many navigators who recorded their expertise in celestial navigation and maritime phenomena. Astronomy also influenced local sayings. The appearance of the star Suhail marks the beginning of cooler nights, as in the proverb: 'If Suhail appears, water and night cool down'. Another star – Al Kawi – signals the time to harvest wheat: 'When Al Kawi appears, cut and roast the wheat'. Dr Ishaq Yahya al Shuaili, Chairman of Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, believes these traditional insights serve as a bridge to modern science. He said that involving students early in astronomy education – through exposure to topics like satellites, meteorites and space missions – can foster interest and prepare the next generation of scientists. The society also organises practical activities such as observation camps, workshops and competitions. Shuaili said such experiences deepen students' understanding and help connect theory to real-world applications. He further highlighted the need for media support, including the production of documentaries and digital content to communicate the relevance of astronomy in sectors like agriculture, communication, navigation and disaster response. Board member Omar Hamdan al Hosni stressed the importance of teacher training in astronomy, calling it a strategic investment in building space awareness. He added that the global space sector is rapidly evolving, particularly with the rise of CubeSats and commercial space ventures, and Oman has positioned itself to keep pace with developments. As Oman looks skyward, it continues to draw strength from its heritage, linking centuries of star-based knowledge with future ambitions in space science.
