In a significant advancement for Pakistan’s digital communication infrastructure, the country successfully launched its second communication satellite, PAKSAT MM-1, on Thursday. The satellite was sent into orbit from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC) and will deploy at an altitude of 36,000 kilometers above the Earth.
PAKSAT MM-1, a five-ton satellite equipped with state-of-the-art communication technology, aims to bolster Pakistan’s telecom sector. The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) highlighted the satellite’s role in establishing a sophisticated communication network to meet the growing demands of the sector. A Suparco official mentioned that it will take three to four days for the satellite to stabilize in its designated orbit.
“The satellite’s advanced capabilities will address the increasing demand for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity. This high-power multi-mission satellite will provide communication services in C, Ku, Ka Bands, and SBAS services in L Band,” the official added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on this milestone. “I, along with the entire nation, am proud of our scientists’ achievement,” said the premier. “This success will be a stepping stone in transforming Pakistan into a digital nation. It will offer various communication services such as broadband internet, TV broadcasting, mobile bank hauling, and VSAT connectivity,” he added.
This launch follows the historic ICUBE-Q launch on May 3 aboard China’s Chang’E6 mission. The ICube-Qamar satellite achieved lunar orbit on May 9 and operated according to the designated parameters upon its deployment on the moon. The Chang’e 6 mission is scheduled to commence its return journey to Earth on June 4, with an expected arrival on June 25.
The quest to send a lunar orbiter began in 2022 when the China National Space Agency (CNSA), through the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), provided member states an opportunity to send a student-built payload to the moon onboard the Chang’e 6 mission. This collaboration underscores Pakistan’s growing presence in space exploration and its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for national development.
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