ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has achieved another milestone in its national space programme with the successful launch of its second indigenous Earth Observation Satellite, EO-2, from China’s Yangjiang Seashore Launch Centre on Thursday.
Developed by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the EO-2 satellite is set to significantly enhance the country’s earth observation and high-resolution imaging capabilities.
According to SUPARCO officials, EO-2 will provide critical data to support national development planning, natural resource management, environmental monitoring and urban expansion. The satellite is also expected to strengthen governance, disaster management, climate analysis and strategic decision-making through the delivery of accurate and timely satellite imagery.
With the addition of EO-2, Pakistan has further expanded its satellite fleet, ensuring improved continuity, coverage and precision in earth observation data, the space agency said. Officials described the launch as a landmark achievement in Pakistan’s space journey, highlighting that the indigenous development of EO-2 demonstrates the country’s growing technical expertise and increasing self-reliance in advanced satellite technology.
Earlier this month, on February 7, Pakistan also made progress in its Human Spaceflight Programme as two candidates were officially shortlisted by the Astronauts Centre of China (ACC), according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The development followed a cooperation agreement signed in February 2025 between SUPARCO and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Under the agreement, two Pakistani candidates will receive astronaut training in China, with one ultimately selected to travel to the Tiangong space station.
Last year, Pakistan launched its first indigenous Electro-Optical satellite, EO-1, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the country’s space exploration efforts.
