New Pakistani satellite to launch into space on May 30

Pakistan will launch of a new satellite PAKSAT MM-1 later this week, which would revolutionise communication in the country and cater to the growing needs of the nation in the broad spectrum of connectivity.

The launch of the PAKSAT MM-1 from Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), China, on May 30 by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) is seen as a giant leap towards a digitally connected Pakistan.

The launch ceremony will be shown live from the Islamabad and Karachi establishments of Suparco.

“The satellite is expected to contribute to the establishment of a sophisticated communication network and help meet the growing demands of the telecom sector,” Suparco said.

“Its advanced capabilities will address the increasing demand for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity. This high power multi-mission satellite will provide communication services in C, Ku, Ka Bands and SBAS services in L Band,” it added.

“It will prove to be a stepping stone in the transformation of the country into Digital Pakistan. It will provide various communication services like broadband internet, TV broadcasting, mobile bank hauling and VSAT connectivity.”

Project Manager MM-1, SUPARCO, Dr Usman Iftikhar, said that the PAKSAT MM-1 was a communication satellite which would be sent in Geostationary Orbit at an altitude of about 36,000 kms from Earth.

The launch follows the historic ICUBE-Q launch on May 3 on board China’s Chang’E6 mission.