
03/05/2024
The first lunar mission from Pakistan, ICUBE-Qamar, was successful in its launch into space. It was developed by partnering with the Institute of Space Technology (IST), the Chinese Shanghai University SJTU, and Pakistan's national space agency SUPARCO. ICUBE-Qamar began its journey on China's Chang'E6 spacecraft, which is based in Hainan, China.
The launch, broadcast live via the IST website, culminates Pakistan's space exploration efforts.
The ICUBE Qamar orbiter, outfitted with two cameras that can be used for moon surface images, passed rigorous testing and qualification phases and is now included in the Chang'E6 mission, the most recent version of China's moon exploration mission.
Chang'E6's primary goal is to reach the far end of the Moon to collect samples and then return them to Earth to conduct research.
Interestingly, this mission carries Pakistan's CubeSat satellite iCube-Q, which IST developed. CubeSats, renowned for their small dimensions and standard layout, play an essential role in scientific research, technological development, and educational activities associated with space exploration.
Small satellites, typically weighing several kilograms, can be used for a variety of tasks, such as Earth observation, remote monitoring, research on atmospheric conditions, communications, astronomy, and even technology demonstration.
Pakistan's participation in this lunar mission demonstrates its increasing prominence in the international space arena and its commitment to furthering research beyond the Earth's limits.