Pakistan’s iCube Qamar Satellite Sends Historic First Images of Sun from Moon’s Orbit

In a historic achievement for Pakistan’s space program, the country’s first satellite to reach the moon’s orbit, iCube Qamar, has transmitted its inaugural images. These images, which were captured from the moon’s orbit, mark a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey into space exploration.

First Images from Lunar Orbit

icube qamar moon image
Credit: SUPARCO

The iCube Qamar satellite, developed by Pakistani scientists and engineers, was launched into space on May 3, 2024. Seven days later, it successfully captured and transmitted its first images from the moon’s orbit, including a striking photograph of the sun. This image, which offers a unique perspective of the lunar surface, represents a remarkable step forward in Pakistan’s space exploration efforts. The satellite’s first images were officially unveiled at a special ceremony held by the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the partner organization that helped launch the satellite into space. During the event, CNSA officials presented the first photograph from the satellite to the Pakistani ambassador, symbolizing the strong collaborative relationship between China and Pakistan in space endeavors.

Strategic Positioning for Capturing the Sun

icube qamar moon image
Credit: SUPARCO

Dr. Khurram Khurshid, head of the Institute of Space Technology’s (IST) Department of Electrical Engineering, explained the satellite’s journey into space. He noted that upon reaching its orbital position, the iCube Qamar’s camera was strategically positioned to capture images of the sun, before capturing its historic first photo from the lunar orbit. The satellite then moved into a different part of the moon’s orbit, capturing additional images of the moon’s surface.

Pakistan’s Entry into Space Research

icube qamar moon image 2
Credit: SUPARCO

Pakistan’s entry into the international space race for research began with the launch of iCube Qamar from China’s Hainan Space Site. This mission made Pakistan the sixth country in the world to reach the moon. The satellite, weighing approximately 7 kilograms, was developed by the IST’s Department of Electrical Engineering over two years, in partnership with the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco). The collaboration with CNSA was crucial to the mission’s success, linking the iCube Qamar satellite to China’s Chang’e 6 mission. This mission not only signifies a significant step for Pakistan’s space exploration but also strengthens the partnership between Pakistan and China in advancing space research.

A New Chapter for Pakistan’s Space Program

The successful transmission of images from iCube Qamar marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s space program, highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in space technology and research. As Pakistan continues its journey in space exploration, these first images from the moon’s orbit serve as a testament to the dedication and expertise of Pakistani scientists and engineers, and the value of international collaboration in achieving ambitious goals.

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