Pakistan to launch Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on January 17

Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) announced the launch of its indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on January 17.

The Pakistani satellite will be launched from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, a major milestone in Pakistan's space exploration and technological progress.

The authorities attributed the launch of the indigenous EO-1 mission to the “dedication and expertise in advancing Pakistan’s technological capabilities in space sciences and innovation.”

The EO-1 satellite marked a monumental milestone in Pakistan's space technology, enhancing the country's capacity to oversee natural resources, anticipate and respond to natural disasters, ensure food security, and fuel economic growth through data-driven decision-making and sustainable development. 

This indigenous marvel is poised to revolutionise multiple sectors in Pakistan, including agriculture, urban development, environmental monitoring, and disaster management, offering substantial benefits that will propel the nation towards a brighter future.

Suparco said the satellite would enable the country for precious farming by monitoring corps, predicting yields and supporting food security initiatives. 

The satellite will aid urban planning by tracking infrastructure growth and managing urban expansion. It will also provide critical updates on natural disasters like floods, landslides, and earthquakes, and monitor environmental degradation such as deforestation and land erosion. 

Furthermore, it will support the sustainable management of natural resources, including minerals, oil, gas, glaciers, and water resources.