Pakistan launches first home-made observation satellite EO-1 – Tech

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on Friday from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China.

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, 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 two other satellites, Tianlu-1 and Blue Carbon 1, today into orbit along with the PRSC-EO1, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation said in a statement.

Today’s achievement is set to position advanced space technology capabilities at the forefront of Pakistan’s national progress and development, aligning with the goals of the National Space Policy.

In May last year, Pakistan launched a multi-mission communication satellite, PakSat-MM1, to improve internet and communication infrastructure. It was jointly developed by Suparco and the China Great Wall Industry Corporation.

Suparco also joined a lunar exploration mission in November partnering with China’s Chang’e 8 mission, set to launch in 2028.

Currently valued at $5 billion, the earth observation satellite market is among the fastest-growing sectors within the commercial space industry, with Novaspace predicting it to exceed $8bn by 2033.

Countries, including the United States, China and India, have been building their own government and private satellite constellations to map the Earth.