ISLAMABAD: On Wednesday, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) said that it will be working with China’s Chang’e 8 mission to launch a ground-breaking lunar exploration mission in 2028.
According to a news release from the commission, “This partnership represents an important turning point for Pakistan’s space program, as Suparco’s domestic rover will be a part of the mission to explore the lunar surface.”
The partnership demonstrates the close ties between China and Pakistan as well as their common goal of furthering space research. The roughly 35-kilogram rover from Suparco will be a part of the Chang’e 8 mission, which is a component of the broader International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) program.
The south pole of the Moon, which is known for its difficult terrain and opportunities for ground-breaking scientific findings, is where the rover will land. Exploring the lunar surface, carrying out scientific research, and testing new technologies for upcoming lunar and planetary exploration are among the mission’s goals.
The mapping of the lunar surface, the investigation of lunar soil, and the testing of sustainable technology for human habitation on the moon will be important experiments.
With its cutting-edge scientific equipment, Suparco’s rover will be essential in gathering information that may help guide future lunar expeditions.