Pakistan on Sunday launched its first hyperspectral satellite, HS-1, from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, Suparco reported, calling the mission a major milestone for national space capability.
Hyperspectral sensors record hundreds of narrow spectral channels instead of the few broad colour bands used by conventional satellite cameras. That fine spectral detail lets analysts distinguish subtle differences in vegetation, soil and water chemistry that ordinary imaging cannot, researchers say — making the technology especially valuable for precision agriculture, environmental monitoring and resource mapping.
Suparco said HS-1 will collect ultra-detailed spectral imagery across numerous narrow bands to improve mapping of crop health, soil moisture and water quality, while enabling finer tracking of deforestation, pollution and glacial retreat. The agency added the satellite will strengthen early warning and post-disaster assessments for floods, landslides and other emergencies, with particular benefit to Pakistan’s mountainous north.
Officials said HS-1 will also support large infrastructure projects by identifying geo-hazard risks and informing more resilient planning along corridors such as CPEC. Suparco chairman Muhammad Yousaf Khan thanked the federal government for backing the project and said the new data will help raise agricultural output, boost climate resilience and improve management of natural resources.
Project director Mushtaque Hussain Soomro described the launch as a decisive step in Pakistan’s space roadmap, saying the mission positions the country to expand space-based services for sustainable development and disaster preparedness.
The foreign office called the launch a pivotal advance for Pakistan’s space program and praised the Pakistani and Chinese technical teams involved. Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar commended their professional dedication and bilateral cooperation.
Suparco had announced plans for the HS-1 launch in mid-October. The agency has said it is integrating satellite applications into national disaster risk management systems and has earlier deployed remote sensing satellites from Chinese launch sites to strengthen monitoring and emergency response.
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