Pakistan has launched its first multi-mission satellite, PakSat-MM1, which is now operational and offers space-based broadband services.

Pakistan’s Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced the successful launch of the country’s first multi-mission satellite, PakSat-MM1, alongside the introduction of Pakistan’s inaugural National Space Policy.

The minister highlighted the satellite’s pivotal role within this new policy, emphasizing its potential to transform connectivity throughout Pakistan, especially in remote and underserved areas.

Khawaja pointed out that PakSat-MM1 addressesed a longstanding challenge in the country, providing internet access to rural regions where traditional infrastructure has struggled to develop.

“PAKSAT-MM1 will serve unconnected regions with services like DTH, community internet, tele-education, and telemedicine,” she added.

Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) Chairman Yusuf Khan and PakSat CEO Khalid Rashid commended its capabilities, highlighting the expected significant improvements in internet speeds nationwide.

Moreover, the satellite’s ability to provide 5G coverage addresses the long-standing challenges associated with high costs and logistical complexities in developing traditional telecom infrastructure in remote regions.

Expected to function for more than 15 years, PakSat-MM1 provides broadband and VSAT connectivity, among other services, aligning with Pakistan’s goal of becoming a digitally empowered nation. The satellite operates across C, Ku, Ka, and L bands, highlighting the country’s progress in space technology.

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Pakistan launched this satellite into orbit from China to help boost internet quality and connectivity in the country on May 30.

According to SUPARCO spokesperson, PakSat MM1 is located at an altitude of 38,786 km above the earth as it reached the Earth on June 5.

The satellite is in earth orbit at 38.2 East and the five-tonne PakSat MM1 is equipped with the latest communication equipment which would help provide the fastest internet facility in the country.

Various tests to be performed on the satellite to check the condition of the satellite in orbit, the spokesperson said.

Project Manager MM-1, SUPARCO, Dr Usman Iftikhar, said that the primary objective behind the PAKSAT MM-1 satellite is to strengthen Pakistan’s communication infrastructure would pave the way for broadening the horizons for connectivity, serving the unserved, Tele-education, E-health/Tele-medicine, E-governance and E-commerce while transforming Pakistan into a digital powerhouse.

Earlier, Pakistan’s historic lunar mission (ICUBE-Q) was launched on May 3 on board China’s Chang’E6 from Hainan, China. The satellite iCube-Qamar mission marks Pakistan’s first lunar exploration effort which is a significant milestone for the country’s space endeavours.