By: Vibhuti Pathak
Pakistan launched its inaugural lunar satellite mission alongside China’s Chang’e-6 probe, embarking on a 53-day journey to collect samples from the moon’s far side. The ICUBE-Q orbiter, developed by Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology in collaboration with Chinese and national agencies, carries two optical cameras for surface imaging.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed this milestone, envisioning enhanced satellite communication and scientific research capabilities. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar lauded the cooperative venture, highlighting its significance for Pakistani youth. The CubeSat iCUBE-Q will orbit the moon for three to six months, capturing crucial data for research and technological advancement.
According to the Institute of Space Technology (IST), the country’s ICUBE-q satellite has been designed and developed by IST in collaboration with China’s Shanghai University SJTU and Pakistan’s national space agency Suparco.
ICUBE-Q orbiter carries two optical cameras to image the lunar surface. The mission is to collect samples from the far side of the Moon. The Chang’e-6 mission is tasked with collecting and then returning samples.
“Just as in the nuclear field, our scientists, engineers, and talented individuals are diligently striving in this field,” said Sharif.
“This achievement will bolster Pakistan’s satellite communication capabilities and pave the way for new opportunities in scientific research, economic development, and national security,”
Pakistan’s debut lunar satellite mission was launched Friday on board China’s first lunar probe mission to collect samples from the far side of the Moon.
The 53-day-long Chang’e-6 mission will collect samples for the first time from the far side of the moon and bring them for scientific studies. This is the first time that China has included an orbiter from its all-weather ally Pakistan in its moon mission.
Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar posted on his social media saying, “Today’s launch from Hainan in China, is a good example of countries and organisations coming together for space cooperation and shared benefits. It shows the promise of Pakistani youth.” He congratulated students and scientists for this milestone.
He added that different pictures of the surface of the moon will be taken with the help of the satellite after which Pakistan will have its own satellite images of the moon for research.
CubeSats are miniature satellites typically characterised by their small size and standardised design. They are constructed in a cubic shape, consisting of modular components that adhere to specific size constraints. These satellites often weigh no more than a few kilogrammes and are deployed in space for various purposes.
