ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has achieved a significant milestone in its national space programme with the successful launch of its third indigenous Earth Observation Satellite, EO-3, from China’s Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center on Saturday.
“Today’s launch of EO-3 Satellite is yet another significant milestone; a step forward in Pakistan’s journey towards self-reliance and technological excellence,” according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s military media wing ISPR.
The satellite developed by Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) will provide imaging data to revolutionise urban planning, disaster management, food security, and environmental protection.
The successful launch of the EO-3 satellite marks a significant milestone, laying the foundation for an integrated Earth Observation System designed to support national priorities across various sectors.
The initiative is expected to play a vital role in advancing sustainable socio-economic development in Pakistan.
On this landmark occasion, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif commended the professionalism, dedication, and technical expertise of SUPARCO’s engineers and scientists. He also acknowledged the continued support of China, Pakistan’s longstanding strategic partner, in the field of space cooperation.
This development follows a cooperation agreement signed in February 2025 between SUPARCO and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Under the agreement, two Pakistani candidates will undergo astronaut training in China, with one eventually selected to travel to the Tiangong space station.
Last year, Pakistan launched its first indigenous Electro-Optical satellite, EO-1, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China, laying the foundation for a sustained indigenous earth observation programme.
