Pakistan launches EO-3 satellite, boosts Earth observation capability

Pakistan on Saturday achieved a “major milestone” in its space program with the successful launch of an indigenous electro-optical satellite (EO-3), the military’s media wing said.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the satellite was launched from China’s Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center with support from the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission.

According to XinhuaAt 20:15 (Beijing time), the satellite lifted off aboard a Long March-6 launch vehicle and successfully entered its planned orbit. The launch marked the 640th flight mission in the Long March rocket series.

Describing the development as a “historic achievement”, the ISPR statement said the launch of EO-3 marked “another significant milestone; a step forward in Pakistan’s journey towards self-reliance and technological excellence”.

ISPR said the satellite would provide imagery data to support a wide range of national needs. “The satellite will provide imagery data to revolutionize urban planning, disaster management, food security and environmental protection,” it added.

It added that the successful implementation would lay the foundation for an integrated Earth observation system to support national priorities across multiple sectors and contribute to sustainable socio-economic development.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the efforts behind the mission. “The successful launch of EO-3 reflects the professional expertise and unwavering commitment of SUPARCO’s engineers and scientists,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.

He also acknowledged the role of Pakistan’s long-standing partner, adding that the government highly appreciated China’s continued support in advancing Pakistan’s space capabilities.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also congratulated the nation on the successful launch of a locally developed electro-optical satellite with the cooperation of China.

Appreciating the professional expertise and hard work of scientists and engineers involved in the mission, he said: “I salute the tireless efforts and professional excellence of our scientists, engineers and experts.”

Describing the launch as a great achievement, he further said that Pakistan-China friendship also evolved into new domains, including space, adding that this milestone would pave the way for future progress.

The minister noted that the satellite would support multiple sectors and significantly enhance Earth observation capacity, improve remote sensing, data accuracy and policy making across various areas.