Pakistan to launch new remote sensing satellite this week

ISLAMABAD:  Pakistan is set to launch its new remote sensing satellite on July 31 from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center, a spokesperson for SUPARCO (Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission) has said.

The new satellite initiative, designed to enhance agricultural monitoring, will facilitate accurate data for crop assessment, and support urban planning initiatives across the country, SUPARCO said Sunday.

The satellite will play a critical role in disaster management by offering early warnings about natural calamities including floods, earthquakes, and landslides.

“It (the satellite) will also provide surveillances on the state’s mega projects currently in progress including China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).”

This satellite is a remarkable achievement as with it the country’s space and scientific development will potentially benefit the public by monitoring environment, food security, and national preparedness for climate-related calamities.

Meanwhile, the also country launched its first home-made observation satellite from the same spot in northern China, Pakistan’s space agency had said in January.

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The PRSC-EO1 satellite will boost Pakistan’s ability to monitor and manage natural resources, respond to disasters, and improve urban planning and agricultural development, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) said in a statement.

This type of satellite uses electro-optical sensors to collect data and images of the Earth’s surface by detecting and measuring reflected sunlight or emitted radiation.

China’s Long March-2D carrier rocket also launched on Friday two other satellites, Tianlu-1 and Blue Carbon 1, into orbit along with the PRSC EO1, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation said in a statement.

“Spearheaded by SUPARCO, this demonstrates our nation’s growing capabilities in space science and technology,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.