Pakistan Launches Satellite to Boost Disaster Surveillance

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Pakistan is set to launch a new remote sensing satellite early Thursday morning, aiming to strengthen the country’s disaster management and national development capabilities. The launch, scheduled between 6:30am and 7:15am (Pakistan Standard Time), will take place from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center, according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).

The satellite is designed to assist with real-time monitoring of natural disasters including floods, landslides, glacier melt, and earthquakes. It will also support Pakistan’s early warning systems and improve response times during emergencies.

Beyond disaster surveillance, the satellite has wider applications. It will be used for agricultural monitoring, environmental tracking, infrastructure planning, and mapping transport routes. One of its key roles will be in supporting national infrastructure initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), where accurate mapping and identification of geographical risks are essential.

SUPARCO stated that this development is in line with Pakistan’s National Space Policy and Vision 2047, which aims to position the country as a regional leader in space technology. The agency noted that enhanced satellite capability is a step towards greater technological independence and innovation in scientific research.

The launch underscores Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to build a sustainable space program focused on peaceful exploration and national advancement. It also reflects growing regional activity in space technology. On Wednesday evening, India’s space agency, ISRO, launched its own satellite named “NISAR” from the Satish Dhawan Space Center. That satellite is focused on earth science, ecosystems, and natural hazards.

SUPARCO emphasized that Pakistan’s satellite is a domestically-driven project intended to support national interests and long-term planning. By expanding research-based satellite infrastructure, the country aims to improve data accuracy, promote sustainable development, and build resilience to environmental challenges.

This launch marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s space program and is expected to pave the way for future advancements in scientific research, urban development, and disaster preparedness.