Six months after Pakistan’s first lunar satellite mission, iCube Qamar, was launched aboard China’s Chang’E6 from Hainan, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) announced its collaboration with China on a groundbreaking lunar mission. The partnership will focus on China’s Chang’E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028.
This collaboration marks a significant advancement for Pakistan’s space program, as Suparco’s indigenous rover will be part of the mission aimed at exploring the lunar surface.
Weighing approximately 35 kilograms, Suparco’s rover will join the Chang’E 8 mission, which is part of the broader International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative.
The rover is set to land on the Moon’s south pole, an area known for its challenging terrain and potential for scientific breakthroughs.
The mission will involve various scientific experiments, including studying lunar soil, mapping the lunar surface, and testing new technologies for long-term human presence on the Moon.
Equipped with cutting-edge scientific instruments, Suparco’s rover will play a vital role in collecting data that could lay the groundwork for future lunar explorations.
This collaboration underscores the strong ties between Pakistan and China and their shared commitment to advancing space exploration.
