In a major step towards developing its internet and communication capabilities, Pakistan has announced plans to launch a new satellite into space after the successful deployment of the iCube satellite.
The new satellite, called MM1, will be launched on May 30, according to a spokesman for the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Group (Suparco). National space agency Suparco said the flight will be launched from Islamabad.
The main objective of the MM1 satellite is to strengthen Pakistan’s communication infrastructure. It is expected that Sputnik will contribute to the creation of a complex communication network and have the ability to meet the needs of the telecommunications industry.
With the speed of Internet usage and the imminent launch of 5G technology, the MM1 satellite promises to make this service more secure and reliable across the country.
On May 3, Pakistan launched its first mission to the moon and entered the international space race for exploration. The mission was launched with Chinese assistance from China’s Hainan Space Center. The satellite, which weighs around 7 kg, was developed over two years by the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad.
Suparco has launched the first satellite into lunar orbit as part of China’s Chang’e 6 mission.
The iCube Moon made history on Friday by sending its first image from orbit around the Moon. Sputnik has successfully captured and transmitted the first images from lunar orbit, providing a unique view of the lunar surface.