Pakistan has launched its first hyperspectral satellite into space — a development Islamabad believes will open new horizons in agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management, according to Qatar-based media outlet Al Jazeera.
The satellite was successfully launched on Sunday from China’s northwestern Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Pakistan’s space agency SUPARCO announced, describing it as a “historic milestone” in the country’s space journey.
Unlike conventional satellites, a hyperspectral satellite can detect subtle chemical and material variations on Earth’s surface. The technology is particularly valuable for monitoring agricultural production, managing water resources, and assessing damage from natural disasters.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the new satellite will significantly enhance national capacity in precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, urban development, and disaster management. Its ability to identify geological risks will also support major development projects — especially the implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
SUPARCO Chairman Muhammad Yousuf Khan told Dawn newspaper that data from the hyperspectral satellite will “revolutionize agricultural productivity, enhance climate resilience, and make natural resource management more efficient.”
Islamabad has described the launch as “an important step” in Pakistan’s space exploration efforts. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the mission reflects the deep strategic partnership between Pakistan and China and their shared commitment to peaceful space cooperation.
According to The News International, Pakistan has launched three satellites so far this year, including EO-1 and KS-1, both of which are already operational in orbit.
A SUPARCO spokesperson said it will take around two months for the new H-1 satellite to achieve full operational capacity, after which it will become fully functional.
