What Does Pakistan Ship?
The spacecraft is a tiny satellite, roughly the size of a shoebox, known as ICUBE-Q. Its compact size belies its abundance of cameras and research equipment intended for a range of lunar experiments.
Taking a Trip with China
ICUBE-Q will not be going it alone. It will travel to the moon by hitching a ride on China's larger spacecraft, Chang'e 6.
Setting Foot in a New Place
Chang'e 6 intends to set foot on the moon's far side—a territory that has never been visited before. The mission's goal is to gather soil and rocks from the moon to send back to Earth for analysis by scientists.
How ICUBE-Q Will Act?
As Chang'e 6 gathers samples, ICUBE-Q will carry out independent scientific research. It will assess radiation levels, investigate the lunar environment, test novel technologies, and more. Pakistan will use the data it gathers to assist design future space missions.
Designed in Pakistan, With Assistance
With assistance from Chinese partners and Pakistan's space agency, SUPARCO, scientists and engineers in Islamabad designed and constructed ICUBE-Q.
Pride in Pakistan
Pakistan is really proud of this moon expedition. It illustrates the scientific prowess of Pakistanis and their capacity to work cooperatively on challenging projects with scientists from other nations. This initial lunar step could pave the way for even greater space exploration successes.
Educating for the Future
The first moon trip from Pakistan will give the country invaluable experience in developing and managing spacecraft. It would also encourage young Pakistanis to seek jobs in science and space exploration by acting as an inspiration.
Only the Beginning
On May 3, ICUBE-Q will launch, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan. But this is just the start. Pakistan is setting the stage for more ambitious space exploration with its lunar expedition. Who knows? Pakistani astronauts might actually set foot on the moon one day!