China launches Pakistani satellite PRSC-EO3 into orbit
China has successfully launched a Pakistani remote sensing satellite into orbit, marking another step in growing space cooperation between the two countries and boosting Islamabad’s technological capabilities.
The satellite, PRSC-EO3, was carried into space aboard a Long March 6 rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province. According to Chinese state media, the launch took place in the evening and the satellite was accurately placed into its designated orbit without complications.
The mission represents the 640th launch in China’s Long March rocket series, highlighting Beijing’s rapidly expanding space programme and its increasing role as a global launch service provider. Analysts say such collaborations are strengthening China’s strategic partnerships, particularly with countries seeking to develop independent space capabilities.
Pakistan’s SUPARCO described PRSC-EO3 as a major milestone toward achieving greater self-reliance in space technology. The satellite is designed to enhance Earth observation capacity, enabling improved monitoring of natural resources, agricultural productivity, urban expansion, and environmental changes.
Officials said the satellite will play a crucial role in disaster response, including flood tracking, cyclone monitoring, and damage assessment—areas of growing importance as climate-related risks intensify across South Asia. It is also expected to support food security planning by providing accurate data for crop assessment and water resource management.
Pakistan’s military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, noted that PRSC-EO3 will contribute to building an integrated national Earth observation system aligned with development priorities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the scientists and engineers behind the project, while also acknowledging China’s continued technical and logistical support.
.png "Advertisement")
