PakSat MM1: Pakistan’s satellite successfully reaches earth orbit

ISLAMABAD: PakSat MM1 communication satellite attained its designated orbit on Thursday, Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) confirmed.

The satellite was launched on May 30 by the country’s national space agency from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC)

Read more: Pakistan launches second satellite ‘PAKSAT MM-1’ into space

A spokesperson for SUPARCO confirmed that PakSat MM1 is now orbiting at an altitude of 38,786 kilometers above Earth, stationed precisely at 38.2 degrees east.

The satellite weighs five tonnes and boasts a cutting-edge communication technology aimed at providing high-speed internet access across the country.

The primary objective of the satellite is to better internet connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved areas of the country. The government claimed that the satellite was launched to support Pakistan’s digital initiatives.

The satellite’s advanced capabilities are expected to reduce the country’s dependency on foreign satellites for communication services.

Upon reaching its orbit, the satellite’s solar panels activated, signifying the commencement of its operational phase. SUPARCO will conduct various tests to ensure the satellite’s optimal performance and health in orbit.

Read more: Pakistan to launch Paksat MM1 satellite today

The launch of PakSat MM1 shows Pakistan’s commitment to advancing its space programme. The development follows the successful deployment of Pakistan’s first communication satellite, PakSAT-1R, in 2011.