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Pakistan Successfully Launches First-Ever Hyperspectral Satellite HS-1 from China

Pakistan

Islamabad, October 19, 2025 — The Europe Today: In a landmark achievement that ushers in a new era for Pakistan’s space exploration, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has successfully launched the country’s first-ever Hyperspectral Satellite (HS-1) from China.

The launch marks a major technological milestone, showcasing Pakistan’s advancing capabilities in space science, environmental monitoring, and sustainable development. The achievement also underscores the country’s growing focus on leveraging space technology to enhance national resilience, precision agriculture, and disaster management.

Engineered with cutting-edge hyperspectral imaging technology, the HS-1 satellite is capable of capturing ultra-precise imagery across hundreds of narrow spectral bands, offering unparalleled data accuracy for analyzing land, vegetation, water, and urban environments.

Chairman SUPARCO Muhammad Yousaf Khan congratulated the nation on this historic success and expressed deep appreciation for the Government of Pakistan’s continued support, noting that the HS-1 mission is a “defining moment in the nation’s scientific and technological journey.”

He emphasized that data from HS-1 will revolutionize agricultural productivity, strengthen climate resilience, and enable the optimized management of Pakistan’s natural resources. The satellite’s advanced imaging capabilities will empower the country to monitor crop health, soil moisture, and water quality, while providing precise tracking of deforestation, pollution, and glacial melt.

In addition to its environmental applications, HS-1 will significantly enhance early warning systems and post-disaster assessments for natural calamities such as floods and landslides, particularly in northern Pakistan. The satellite is also expected to support strategic national projects, including the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), by identifying geo-hazard risks and guiding sustainable infrastructure development.

The successful launch of HS-1 further strengthens Pakistan–China cooperation in space science and technology, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries in advancing peaceful space exploration and socioeconomic development.

Project Director Mushtaque Hussain Soomro lauded the dedication and expertise of the mission team, stating that the HS-1 mission represents “a defining leap in Pakistan’s ambitious space roadmap” and positions the nation as an emerging regional leader in space technology for sustainable growth.

The integration of HS-1 into Pakistan’s expanding satellite fleet marks a decisive stride toward space technology excellence, reaffirming SUPARCO’s vital role in driving national progress through innovation, research, and strategic international collaboration.