In a significant leap forward for its technological capabilities, Pakistan has declared its intention to propel a new satellite into space, following the triumphant deployment of the iCube Qamar satellite.
Scheduled for launch on May 30, the forthcoming satellite, christened MM1, marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s space ambitions. A spokesperson from the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) confirmed the launch plans, slated to occur from the capital city of Islamabad.
The primary aim of the MM1 satellite is to fortify Pakistan’s communication infrastructure. It is envisaged that the satellite will play a pivotal role in establishing a sophisticated communication network, poised to address the burgeoning demands of the telecom sector.
Given the rapid proliferation of internet usage and the impending introduction of 5G technology, the MM1 satellite holds the potential to ensure enhanced availability and reliability of these services nationwide. Its advanced functionalities are anticipated to cater to the surging need for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity.
This announcement comes on the heels of Pakistan’s recent foray into lunar exploration. On May 3, the nation embarked on its maiden lunar mission with the assistance of China, launching a satellite weighing approximately 7kg from China’s Hainan Space Site. Developed by the Electrical Engineering Department of the Institute of Space Technology (IST) in Islamabad over a span of two years, the satellite was intricately linked to China’s Chang’e 6 mission. With this milestone, Pakistan proudly joined the ranks of the world’s lunar explorers, becoming the sixth country to venture to the moon.
Adding to the triumphs, the iCube Qamar satellite made history by transmitting its inaugural images from the moon’s orbit on Friday. Effortlessly capturing and relaying images of the lunar surface, this achievement underscored Pakistan’s growing prowess in space exploration and technological innovation.
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