Pakistan launches EO-3 satellite, boosting Earth observation capabilities
Indigenous electro-optical satellite sent into orbit from China in milestone for space program and Pak-China cooperation
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (MNTV) — Pakistan on Saturday successfully launched its indigenous electro-optical satellite EO-3 from China, marking what officials called a significant milestone in the country’s growing space capabilities.
The Foreign Office said the satellite was launched by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.
In a statement posted on X, the ministry said EO-3 would enhance Pakistan’s Earth observation capacity through advanced imaging and data analysis technologies.
“Beyond its core imaging mission, EO-3 carries advanced experimental payloads aimed at validating next-generation space technologies,” the statement said, citing features including a multi-geometry imaging module, an advanced energy storage system and an onboard AI-powered data processing unit for real-time analysis.
Officials said the addition of EO-3 to Pakistan’s satellite fleet would improve data continuity, imaging reliability and analytical precision, supporting applications across sectors such as development and resource management.
The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, said the satellite would provide imaging data to support urban planning, disaster management, food security and environmental protection.
President Asif Ali Zardari called the launch a “historic milestone,” describing it as a manifestation of Pakistan’s self-reliance and growing expertise in space technology. He also praised China’s continued cooperation in the sector.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended Suparco’s scientists and engineers and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the national space program, while thanking Beijing for its support.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also lauded the achievement, calling it a reflection of Pakistan’s expanding scientific capability.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the launch as a “big achievement” and said cooperation between Pakistan and China in space was reaching new heights.
China’s Xinhua News Agency reported the satellite was launched aboard a Long March-6 rocket at 8:15 p.m. Beijing time and successfully entered its planned orbit.
The launch follows Pakistan’s earlier deployment of its first electro-optical satellite EO-1 in January 2025 from Jiuquan and EO-2 in February this year from the Yangjiang Seashore Launch Centre, marking continued progress in the country’s space program.
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