Pakistan has launched its first Hyperspectral Satellite, HS-1, from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre. The mission’s live broadcast was aired from Suparco’s Karachi complex, according to the space agency.
The launch included the presence of Pakistani scientists and engineers. A Suparco spokesperson announced that the satellite successfully entered its orbit, and in-orbit testing will take about two months before HS-1 is fully operational.
The spokesperson stated that HS-1 will analyze land, vegetation, water, and urban areas, providing high-resolution images in many spectral bands. It is expected to improve agricultural planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. It will help in tracking deforestation, pollution, glacier melting, and assessing geological risks in CPEC projects.
Suparco Chairman Muhammad Yousuf Khan congratulated the nation and highlighted the government’s crucial support in achieving this national milestone. The launch is a major step toward Pakistan’s self-reliance in space technology and supports the National Space Policy and Vision 2047.
In a statement, the Foreign Office described the HS-1 launch as a significant milestone, pointing out that it demonstrates the strong Pakistan-China partnership in the peaceful use of outer space.