As Pak-China cosmic collaborations go full steam ahead, China’s Chang’e 6 2024 lunar mission partnered with Pakistan’s science payload has been launched with high-octane enthusiasm on May 3 (Friday), offering a tenacious glimpse of a brand-new pivot in Pak-China space and lunar explorations.
With the launch of Pakistan’s lunar satellite, “ICUBE-Q”, scheduled for liftoff with China’s Chang’E6 spacecraft from Hainan, hopes are blossoming for the mission’s wide-ranging breakthroughs.
This joint endeavor not only marks a monumental leap forward in Pakistan’s space exploration journey but also props up the profound bond between the two nations.
It symbolizes Pakistan’s ascent into the realm of cosmic exploration and underscores the unwavering camaraderie shared between Pakistan and China. With the successful launch, anticipation mounts that the groundbreaking mission will unravel the mysteries of the moon’s dark side. The probe is set to collect samples from the far side of the moon, making this mission the first of its kind in human history.
ICUBE-Qamar project
The inception of the ICUBE-Qamar project stemmed from China’s invitation to member states of the Asia Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO) to participate in its lunar exploration mission. Pakistan, through its Institute of Space Technology (IST) and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), seized this opportunity to collaborate with China’s Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) in designing and developing the CubeSat.
ICUBE-Qamar, weighing approximately seven kilograms, is equipped with two one-megapixel optical cameras to capture images of the lunar surface. Its primary objectives include recording the release process from the Chang’e 6 orbiter, transmitting beacon signals to confirm the successful operation, and capturing images of the Earth, Moon, and orbiter.
Additionally, the CubeSat aims to gather data on the lunar magnetic field, laying the groundwork for future international cooperation in lunar exploration. CubeSats, characterized by their compact size and modular design, offer cost-effective opportunities for scientific research and technology development in space exploration.
It’s a great feat for Pakistan, as this mission will put Pakistan in the league of developed nations of Europe including France, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and Asian economic and tech giant China.
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s participation in the Chang’e 6 mission paves the way for future collaboration with China in space exploration. The two countries are set to embark on ambitious plans, including the construction of a research station on the lunar south pole as part of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project. This collaboration underscores Pakistan’s strategic alignment with China in advancing space exploration initiatives and fostering scientific cooperation