ISLAMABAD: Pakistan achieved a major milestone in its space programme on Thursday, February 12, 2026, with the successful launch of its second indigenous Earth Observation Satellite, PRSC-EO2, from China’s Yangjiang Seashore Launch Centre.
The launch was carried out aboard China’s Smart Dragon-3 rocket, and officials confirmed that the satellite was successfully placed into its intended orbit.
Developed and built locally by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), EO-2 is designed to provide high-resolution imagery for applications across agriculture, urban planning, natural resource management, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
SUPARCO officials said the satellite will strengthen continuity and accuracy in Earth observation data, supporting both long-term strategic planning and immediate disaster assessment needs.
The launch was conducted under a multi-launch agreement with the China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), which supplied propulsion components and offered tracking, telemetry, and command support during the early orbit phase.
This mission marked the first time a Pakistani satellite was launched using China’s sea-based mobile launch platform, showcasing both technical innovation and operational flexibility.
Officials from Pakistan and China described the launch as a testament to the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in advanced space technology. SUPARCO officials hailed the successful mission as a symbol of Pakistan’s growing self-reliance in satellite design and development.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar congratulated SUPARCO scientists, engineers, and the entire team, noting that the launch reflected Pakistan’s steady progress in developing domestic space capabilities.
He also praised China for its continued support, saying the bilateral partnership “continues to scale new heights, including in space technology.”
The addition of EO-2 to Pakistan’s satellite fleet follows the successful launch of the country’s first Earth Observation Satellite in 2023. With its advanced optical payload, EO-2 will enable precise monitoring of urban expansion, environmental change, and natural disasters, providing critical data for national planning and policy-making.
SUPARCO officials emphasized that the satellite’s capabilities will not only enhance scientific research but also strengthen preparedness and resilience in communities vulnerable to climate-related and natural hazards, marking a significant step in Pakistan’s long-term space programme.
