Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the launch of the nation’s first Hyperspectral Satellite (HS-1) from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on October 19, marking a major advancement in Pakistan-China cooperation in the space and technology domains.

Developed with Chinese technical collaboration, the HS-1 satellite will capture hundreds of spectral bands across visible and infrared wavelengths, enabling Pakistan to monitor agricultural health, water resources, environmental degradation, and urban expansion with unprecedented accuracy.

According to SUPARCO, the satellite will enhance agricultural yield estimation by up to 20 percent, improve climate resilience, and strengthen disaster-preparedness systems through precise monitoring of floods and landslides, Gwadar Pro reported on Thursday.

“The HS-1 mission represents a transformative leap in Pakistan’s space program and a testament to the enduring strategic partnership with China,” the agency said in a statement. 

“This collaboration aligns with SUPARCO’s Vision 2047 and China’s support for developing nations in advancing peaceful space technologies.”

Officials added that the new satellite will join Pakistan’s existing remote-sensing fleet, including the Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite (PRSS-1) launched from China in 2018 and two additional Earth observation satellites deployed earlier this year.

The HS-1 launch highlights how China continues to play a vital role in strengthening Pakistan’s technological self-reliance and climate-monitoring capabilities, reaffirming both nations’ shared commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and the peaceful use of outer space.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China