KARACHI:
The ‘ICUBE-Qamar’ (ICUBE-Q) is Pakistan’s first trip into deep space. CubeSats are small satellites that are well-known for being small and having a standard design. ICUBE-Q weighs around 7kg and has two cameras to take pictures of the moon. Its main goals are to safely reach the moon’s orbit, set up communication, and collect important information about the moon’s magnetic field. This brave project shows that Pakistan is excited to explore new places and work with other countries to learn more about space. ICUBE-Q is currently traveling with the Chinese Chang’e-6 lunar probe, which is trying to get samples from the other side of the moon. It’s worth noting that this mission also includes equipment from technologically advanced like France, Italy, etc, showing how Pakistan is becoming more involved in space exploration worldwide.
The contribution of Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology (IST) to the lunar mission is significant. Their proposal was selected after a rigorous evaluation process, showcasing their capability and expertise in space technology. Collaborating with China’s Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) and Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO, IST is deeply involved in the design, development, and deployment of ICUBE-Q.
Despite challenges, such as bureaucratic hurdles, resource constraints, and international sanctions, Pakistan’s commitment to education and science has facilitated its participation in this venture. While its space efforts date back to the 1960s with the launch of the Rehber-1 rocket, progress has been slow. However, the successful launch of the CubeSat highlights Pakistan’s potential in the space domain.
To further this potential, there is a crucial need for official support and investment in nurturing scientific talent, starting from the school level. Although larger-scale projects like manned space missions may not be immediately feasible, Pakistan can still benefit from launching probes and satellites for communication, remote sensing, and scientific research purposes.
ICUBE-Q aims to do a lot of things, like getting into orbit around the moon, taking pictures of the moon’s surface with special cameras, setting up communication, and gathering information about the moon’s magnetic field. These goals fit with the bigger picture of exploring the moon and doing scientific research.
Even though the IST is leading the development of ICUBE-Q, the mission itself is happening through teamwork with the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), including partners from China and other countries. So, while Pakistan is a big part of it, it might not have complete control over the project.
It’s important to think carefully about this because while working with others on space missions can help Pakistan learn more and cooperate internationally, we need to make sure that the benefits we get match what we want for our own space programme. Being clear about who does what in collaborations and making sure everyone knows what’s going on can help Pakistan get the most out of working with others in space exploration. And yes where there is a will, there is a way!
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, May 9th, 2024.
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