PAKSAT MM1: Pakistan launches second satellite into space with aim for faster internet

Pakistan's advanced communication satellite, PAKSAT MM1, has been launched into space in collaboration with China, making it Islamabad's second satellite to be sent into orbit.

The satellite, launched from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC), will help usher Pakistan into the digital era by helping to provide internet to remote areas, the Spa­ce and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) said.

The satellite — which will take around four days to reach space — is expected to contribute to the establishment of a sophisticated communication network and help meet the growing demands of the telecom sector and its advanced capabilities will address the increasing demand for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity.

The agency, in a statement, had said: "This high-power multi-mission satellite will provide communication services in C, Ku, Ka Bands and SBAS services in L Band."

Based on advanced communication technologies, PakSat-MM1 will play a pivotal role in the socio-economic uplift of the country, Suparco said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on the satellite's launch, hoping it would help provide the fastest internet facility throughout the country.

"I am particularly excited about the potential impact of Paksat MM1 on internet connectivity across Pakistan," the premier said in a statement.

The prime minister said that Paksat MM1 would not only enhance the lives of Pakistani citizens but also contribute to the promotion of economic activities, e-commerce, and e-governance.

Before PAKSAT MM1, Pakistan's historic lunar mission (ICUBE-Q) was launched on May 3 on board China’s Chang’E6 from Hainan, China.

The satellite iCube-Qamar mission marked Pakistan’s first lunar exploration effort which is a significant milestone for the country’s space endeavours.

The satellite iCube-Q was designed and developed by the Institute of Space Technology (IST) in collaboration with China’s Shanghai University SJTU and Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO.

The satellite successfully captured and transmitted its inaugural images from lunar orbit, providing a unique perspective of the moon’s surface.