'60-years behind': Pakistan to launch its first Moon mission with a device smaller than your computer only to click pictures of lunar surface
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Pakistan's Maiden Moon Mission
In preparation for its inaugural lunar mission, Pakistan is set to launch its iCube-Q spacecraft aboard China's Chang'e 6 lunar probe on May 3, as announced by the Institute of Space Technology (IST).
Collaboration with China
Developed in collaboration with China's Shanghai University SJTU and Pakistan's national space agency, Suparco, the iCube-Q satellite carries two optical cameras designed to capture images of the Moon's surface.
Confirmation by Chinese Embassy
The Chinese embassy in Pakistan confirmed the collaboration, stating that the Chang'e 6 lunar probe will carry payloads from France, the European Space Agency (ESA), and Pakistan on its round trip.
Chang'e 6 Mission Details
Chang'e 6, China's sixth lunar exploration mission, will embark on a journey to collect soil and rock samples from the darker side of the Moon and then bring them back to Earth.
Limited Technological Capability
Despite its historic significance, the Pakistani space probe faces limitations in technological advancement. With dimensions smaller than a personal computer and a mission trailing at least 60 years behind, the probe's main objective is to capture images of the Moon, echoing the achievement of the Soviet Union in 1966. Furthermore, Pakistan currently lacks its own rocket for satellite delivery into space, and the construction of a space travel vehicle remains financially unfeasible for the country due to economic challenges.
Payload Launch Location
The mission is set to launch from Hainan province in China, with preparations underway to gather valuable data and samples from the Moon's surface.
Future Prospects
The successful launch of iCube-Q aboard the Chang'e 6 lunar probe could pave the way for future space missions by Pakistan.
