Copyright pakobserver
ISLAMABAD – The federal government has tasked SUPARCO with preparing to land a Pakistani mission on the Moon by 2035, while the nation’s first astronaut is expected to travel to space in 2026. It was revealed by Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal while addressing an event on high-speed internet connectivity. He announced that Pakistan will establish its own satellite launch pad, marking a major step toward the country’s space ambitions. Ahsan Iqbal said that digital transformation would expand access to education and strengthen the economy through enhanced digital inclusion. He noted that for a country with Pakistan’s geographical importance, satellite internet has become a necessity. The minister added that work was underway to ensure fiber connectivity in every district to pave the way for the issuance of 5G licenses. He urged the youth to use the internet productively for economic growth instead of wasting time on social media. He also called for the creation of a real-time digital dashboard to monitor improvements in internet speed and employment growth resulting from digital initiatives. During the same event, CEO of PAKSAT Dr. Shahid Rashid said that Pakistan launched PAKSAT in 2024, which has become a key source of internet connectivity for the business community. He added that PAKSAT has evolved into a leading platform providing satellite broadband services. Chairman SUPARCO Muhammad Yousaf stated that collaboration with private companies to expand satellite internet services would enhance broadband coverage and help digitally empower the nation.
