Today marks a historic milestone for Pakistan as it launches its first-ever lunar mission. The satellite mission, CubeSat IQube, is scheduled for liftoff from China’s Hainan Space Launch Site at 12:50 PM.
This satellite, a collaborative effort between Shanghai University of China and Pakistan’s SUPARCO, is outfitted with two optical cameras designed to capture detailed images of the lunar surface. The launch event will be broadcast live, showcasing this significant moment in Pakistan’s space exploration journey.
By participating in China’s prestigious Chang’e lunar mission series, Pakistan has cemented its position as a key player in space exploration. While China’s satellite mission aims to land on the moon and collect samples of lunar soil, Pakistan’s satellite will orbit the moon, capturing vital images for research purposes.
CubeSat IQube, weighing approximately six kilograms, operates with a 12-volt battery powered by solar panels. Its primary function is to utilize its optical cameras to photograph the lunar terrain. Over three months, it will transmit these images, along with data on space weather patterns, back to the Institute of Space Technology.
This groundbreaking mission not only demonstrates Pakistan’s growing capabilities in space technology but also opens up new avenues for scientific research and collaboration on an international scale.