Pakistan is finally realizing the economic benefits of investing in space exploration.
The country’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) will launch its first indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on Jan. 17, a pivotal moment in the nation’s space endeavors.
SUPARCO was established in 1961, predating India’s ISRO by eight years, yet has little to show for its 50+ years in operation. Its initial operations were strictly aimed at producing rockets. It wasn’t until 1990 that it launched its first imaging satellite. In the 35 years since, it has launched just five other satellites, out of the more than 9,100 currently in orbit. This has effectively left the country at a disadvantage, forcing it to rely on other nations for its communication and imaging needs. The EO-1 is a first step at reversing this trend.
The new satellite aims to facilitate precise monitoring of agricultural productivity, improving yield predictions and irrigation management. In turn, this would also strengthen the country’s food security. Similarly, the satellite’s real-time imaging will improve responses to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and earthquakes, potentially saving lives and reducing economic losses. Pakistan remains among the 10 countries most at risk of climate change-induced natural disasters and advance warning is an increasingly vital tool for tackling this threat.
Finally, the EO-1 will assist in tracking infrastructure development and managing urban sprawl, supporting sustainable urbanization efforts. Beyond these immediate advantages, expanding Pakistan’s space program opens the door to broader opportunities that could transform the nation’s economic and technological landscape.
Investing in space technology can generate employment opportunities in engineering, research, and manufacturing, facilitating the country’s fresh graduates. Developing indigenous satellites also fosters advancements in related technologies, promoting overall industrial growth. A robust space program positions Pakistan to offer satellite services internationally, tapping into the lucrative global space economy. Expanding our space program has also become strategically vital, as India’s ISRO plans for human spaceflight by 2026. Maintaining regional balance and ensuring national security means the next battleground for the rival states could well be in space.
Fortunately, there are indications the government is recognizing this. In the federal budget for fiscal year 2024-25, Rs. 35.6 Billion was allocated for SUPARCO, a significant jump from the Rs. 7 billion allocated the year prior.
EO-1 is a step in the right direction. Fully availing the benefits of space exploration, however, requires further boosting funding for SUPARCO to enable the development of advanced satellites and exploration missions. The country must also invest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education to cultivate a skilled workforce that can indigenously drive the space program forward.
Space is the final frontier—one that Pakistan would ignore at its own peril.