Pakistan launches its first homegrown Hyperspectral Satellite from China

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan successfully launched its first Hyperspectral Satellite (HS-1) from the Chinese Satellite Launch Centre, marking a major milestone in the nation’s space program, the Foreign Office announced on Sunday.

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) reported that the HS-1 satellite is equipped with advanced hyperspectral imaging technology capable of capturing data across hundreds of narrow spectral bands.

The technology will enable precise monitoring of land use, vegetation health, water resources, and urban development.

The Foreign Office stated that the satellite will enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management.

“Its high-resolution data will support sustainable resource management and strengthen resilience against climate-related challenges,” the statement read.

The Foreign Office added that the satellite will also aid development initiatives under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor by identifying geo-hazard risks and promoting sustainable infrastructure development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar commended the Pakistani and Chinese scientists and technical teams for their “commitment, professional excellence and exemplary cooperation.” He said the successful launch reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to leveraging space technology for socioeconomic progress.

In a separate statement reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq congratulated the scientists, engineers and the nation on the achievement.

The office added that HS-1 will also aid development initiatives under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor by identifying geo-hazard risks and promoting sustainable infrastructure development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar commended the Pakistani and Chinese scientists and technical teams for their “commitment, professional excellence and exemplary cooperation.”

He emphasized that the successful launch reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to leveraging space technology for socioeconomic progress.

In a statement reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq congratulated the scientists, engineers, and the nation on the achievement.

“The successful launch of HS-1 marks a historic milestone in Pakistan’s space research program,” Sadiq said, noting that it would open new avenues for scientific and technological self-reliance.

He added that the satellite would bring “revolutionary advancements in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and urban planning,” enabling Pakistan to better monitor crop health, soil moisture, and natural disasters. Terming the mission a significant step toward achieving Pakistan’s Sustainable Development Goals, Sadiq said the accomplishment reflected “the hard work, vision, and national commitment of the scientific community.”

He further noted that Parliament would continue to support SUPARCO and other scientific institutions “to ensure Pakistan’s prominent standing in the field of space research.”

The launch highlights the growing cooperation between Pakistan and China in peaceful space exploration and their shared pursuit of sustainable technological development.