
The Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday, announced a landmark collaboration with China’s Chang'E 8 mission, scheduled for launch in 2028. This mission will mark Pakistan’s first venture into lunar exploration, with SUPARCO’s rover set to explore the Moon alongside China’s scientific instruments.
This collaboration is part of the larger International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project, which will focus on the lunar South Pole, a region known for its rugged terrain and valuable scientific insights.
What to expect from SUPARCO rover
SUPARCO’s rover, weighing around 35 kg, will be equipped with advanced instruments designed to gather critical data on lunar soil, map the terrain, and test technologies to support future missions.
The goal is to uncover more about the Moon’s resources and surface, advancing knowledge that could one day enable sustained human presence on the lunar surface.

This collaboration aims for a strong partnership between Pakistan and China, as both nations share a commitment to scientific discovery and space exploration.
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For Pakistan, the mission marks an important step in advancing its space programme and participating in global research on the Moon’s environment.
SUPARCO’s rover will play a significant role in conducting experiments, from studying the Moon’s surface to testing new technologies that can be used for both lunar and planetary exploration.
This mission aligns Pakistan’s goals with those of the international space community, offering insights that could be important for future lunar exploration and space technology development.