Pakistan Joins China’s Chang’e-8 Lunar Mission, Marking Historic Step in Space Exploration
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with China for the Chang’e-8 lunar mission, scheduled for 2028. This collaboration marks Pakistan’s first step into lunar exploration, signifying its growing ambitions in the field of space research.
As part of the mission, SUPARCO will contribute a 35-kilogram rover designed to explore the Moon’s south pole, an area of great scientific interest believed to contain vital resources, including water ice. The rover, scheduled for launch alongside China’s spacecraft, will play a key role in enhancing lunar surface analysis and contributing to important research on lunar resources.
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“This collaboration with China paves the way for groundbreaking scientific research that will significantly expand our understanding of the lunar surface,” a SUPARCO spokesperson stated.
The partnership follows Pakistan’s recent achievements in space exploration, including the successful deployment of the iCube Qamar satellite aboard China’s Chang’e-6 mission in May 2024. This CubeSat, now orbiting the Moon, has been integral to advancing Pakistan’s technological capabilities in space research.
The Chang’e-8 mission is anticipated to provide critical data on the Moon’s south pole, aiding in the feasibility studies for future human missions and resource utilization. The venture not only highlights Pakistan’s emerging role in space exploration but also underscores China’s position as a leader in lunar missions.
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