PRSC-EO3 (also referred to as simply EO-3) is a Pakistani Earth observation satellite developed by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).[1] It was launched on 25 April 2026 from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in China aboard a Long March 6 rocket.[2]
The satellite is part of Pakistan’s Earth observation programme and is intended to enhance remote sensing capabilities, including high-resolution imaging and data analysis for civilian and strategic applications.[3]
Overview
EO-3 is an electro-optical satellite designed to provide high-resolution imagery of the Earth. It forms part of Pakistan’s expanding fleet of remote sensing satellites and is expected to improve data continuity, imaging reliability, and analytical precision.[4]
The satellite also carries experimental payloads aimed at testing next-generation space technologies, including:
- a multi-geometry imaging module for improved accuracy,
- an advanced energy storage system, and
- an onboard artificial intelligence-based data processing unit for real-time analysis.[5]
Launch
EO-3 was launched on 25 April 2026 at 8:15 p.m. (Beijing time) from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi, China.[citation needed]
The launch was conducted with Chinese cooperation, continuing the long-standing collaboration between Pakistan and China in the space sector.[6]
Mission objectives
The primary mission of EO-3 is Earth observation through electro-optical imaging. The satellite is intended to support a range of applications, including agricultural monitoring, urban planning, disaster management and food security, environmental monitoring and resource management.[7]
These capabilities are expected to contribute to national development planning and decision-making processes.[7]
Significance
The launch of EO-3 has been described by officials as a milestone in Pakistan’s space programme, reflecting progress in indigenous satellite development and technological capability.[8][9]
It is also expected to play a role in the development of an integrated Earth observation system in Pakistan, supporting socio-economic development and improving the country’s capacity for satellite-based monitoring.[10]
See also
References
- ^ “Pakistan successfully launches indigenous satellite from China”. Dawn. 2026-04-25. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ Iftikhar, Usama (2026-04-25). “Pakistan marks major milestone with launch of EO-3 satellite to boost Earth observation capability”. The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ Siddiqui, Naveed (2026-04-26). “Pakistan launches EO-3 satellite successfully”. Brecorder. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ Siddiqui, Naveed (2026-04-26). “Pakistan launches EO-3 satellite successfully”. Brecorder. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ Ahmed, Ramiz (2026-04-26). “Pakistan launches high-res imaging satellite”. The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ “Pakistan launches advanced EO-3 Satellite in boost to space capabilities”. Pakistan Today. 25 April 2026.
- ^ a b Shahid, Jamal (2026-04-26). “Pakistan launches indigenous satellite, boosts space capabilities”. Dawn. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ “Ayaz congratulates nation on successful launch of EO-3 satellite”. 2026-04-25. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ “NA Speaker Felicitates Nation on EO-3 Satellite Launch, Hails Scientific Milestone”. 2026-04-25. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
- ^ Abrar, Mian (2026-04-25). “Pakistan Launches EO-3 Satellite to Boost Earth Imaging”. Pakistan Today. Retrieved 2026-04-26.
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