PAKSAT MM1: Pakistan Launches Second Satellite into Space with Aim for Faster Internet
Pakistan has launched its advanced communication satellite, PAKSAT MM1, in collaboration with China, marking Islamabad’s second satellite to be sent into orbit. The satellite, launched from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), is set to significantly enhance internet connectivity, especially in remote areas, helping Pakistan usher into the digital era.
According to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the satellite will establish a sophisticated communication network to meet the growing demands of the telecom sector. It will take around four days to reach its designated orbit and will provide high-speed internet and seamless connectivity.
Suparco stated, “This high-power multi-mission satellite will provide communication services in C, Ku, Ka Bands and SBAS services in L Band.” Based on advanced communication technologies, PAKSAT MM1 is expected to play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on the satellite’s launch, expressing hope that it would facilitate the fastest internet services across Pakistan. He emphasized that PAKSAT MM1 would enhance the lives of Pakistani citizens and contribute to economic activities, e-commerce, and e-governance.
This launch follows Pakistan’s historic lunar mission, ICUBE-Q, which was launched on May 3 from China’s Hainan. The ICUBE-Q mission, a collaboration between the Institute of Space Technology (IST), China’s Shanghai University SJTU, and Suparco, marked Pakistan’s first lunar exploration effort. The satellite successfully captured and transmitted its first images from lunar orbit, providing unique perspectives of the moon’s surface.
