satellite technology and innovation
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved the establishment of theNational Space Centre at a cost of Rs29.5 billion, marking a significantleap forward in Pakistan’s space technology ambitions and reducingdependence on foreign satellite systems.
The project, approved by the Central Development Working Party, will beexecuted by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission(Suparco) with technical collaboration from China. The state-of-the-artfacility will focus on indigenous satellite assembly, integration, testing,and environmental simulation, and mission operations, enabling Pakistan todevelop and launch advanced communication, earth observation, andnavigation satellites.
Officials said the centre will house modern clean rooms, thermal vacuumchambers, vibration testing platforms, and acoustic test facilitiesessential for qualifying satellites for the harsh conditions of space. Theinfrastructure will also support the development of next-generation smallsatellites, CubeSats, and deep-space mission technologies.
The decision comes at a time when regional powers are rapidly expandingtheir space capabilities. The new centre is expected to strengthen nationalsecurity through improved remote sensing and communication systems whileopening opportunities in climate monitoring, disaster management,agriculture, and urban planning.
Construction is scheduled to begin next year, with completion targetedwithin four years. Once operational, the facility will position Pakistanamong a select group of nations possessing end-to-end satellite developmentcapabilities.
Experts have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a strategicinvestment that will foster high-technology jobs, promote STEM education,and stimulate local industry, and enhance Pakistan’s role in the globalspace economy. The project also includes establishment of a dedicated spaceacademy to train engineers and scientists.
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The approval reflects growing governmental commitment to science andtechnology as a pillar of economic development and national sovereignty inan increasingly space-dependent world.
Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1876543Source: https://suparco.gov.pk/
Tags: Pakistan, Suparco, Space Centre, Satellite Technology, China
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