Historic Moment for Pakistan as iCube Qamar, Country’s First Lunar Mission, Launched into Space
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: In a significant milestone for Pakistan’s space exploration endeavors, iCube Qamar, the nation’s inaugural satellite mission to the moon, has been successfully launched into space today. Carried aboard China’s Long March-5 rocket, the satellite embarked on its journey onboard the Chang’E6 spacecraft from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan province, China.
The launch event was broadcasted live on the official website of the Institute of Space Technology (IST) and Chinese state television, marking a momentous occasion for both nations and the global space community.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation and the team of scientists behind this groundbreaking achievement. He emphasized that the launch of ICUBE-Q satellite signifies Pakistan’s pioneering step into the realm of space exploration. In a statement, the Prime Minister underscored the significance of Pakistani talent in advancing technological frontiers, drawing parallels to the nation’s prowess demonstrated in nuclear technology.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Sharif paid tribute to the dedicated efforts of the core committee of the Institute of Space Technology, led by Dr. Khurram Khurshid, and lauded the contributions of all members of the SUPARCO team and students involved in the project.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also conveyed his congratulations to the students and scientists involved in the mission. He hailed today’s launch from Hainan, China, as a testament to the power of international cooperation in space exploration, emphasizing the mutual benefits derived from such collaborative endeavors.
The successful launch of iCube Qamar marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space journey, heralding a new era of scientific innovation and technological advancement for the nation. As the satellite embarks on its mission to the moon, Pakistan stands poised to make further strides in the exploration and utilization of outer space for the betterment of humanity.