Pakistan launches two indigenously manufactured satellites today

Pakistan just launched two indigenously (locally) manufactured satellites into orbit using a Chinese Long March 2C rocket.

Last month, we reported that Pakistan will launch its indigenously developed 285 kg remote sensing satellite (PRSS1) next month to give a boost to its local space programme. And, that moment has arrived: Pakistan has launched two satellites, one a (PRSS1) – a dual-purpose Earth observational and optical satellite and the second test satellite is a PAK-TES-1A. Both the satellites have been developed by SUPARCO, which has a huge role in increasing the manufacturing capabilities of the country.

The PRSS1 is a Remote Sensing Satellite (RSS) and is fitted with cameras and sensors which will be used to study various geographical details, including determination of mineral deposits, climate and weather impacts such as melting glaciers, forest fires, greenhouse gases, and problems related to forestry and agriculture as well.

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The satellites were transported to China as the country lacks the infrastructure to launch objects into space. Chinese Long March-2C rockets are mainly used to send satellites into low Earth or Sun-synchronous orbits. According to a Chinese source, after entering orbit, the PRSS-1 is in good condition while its solar panels unfolded smoothly, according to the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST). Moreover, it is another space cooperation between China and Pakistan since the launch of a previous a communication satellite PAKSAT-1R in August 2011.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalid Masood congratulated the nation on the launch of indigenously manufactured satellites naming it as a major milestone in space technology. Previously, Pakistan only had one satellite into space. The said satellite known as PakSat-1R was launched in 2011 and, since then, it’s been assisting Pakistan authorities in communication and data broadcasting.