BEIJING, China: The ICUBE-Q satellite represents a significant milestone in the collaborative lunar exploration efforts between China and Pakistan, embodying principles of equality, mutual benefits, peaceful space utilization, and inclusive development.
Ge Ping, Deputy Director of China National Space Agency’s Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center, emphasized the project’s role in enhancing bilateral friendship and expanding aerospace cooperation between the two nations.
Initiated by China, the collaboration invited Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology (IST) to contribute a student-built payload for the Chang’e-6 mission, demonstrating a joint effort involving IST faculty and students, Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO, and SJTU since 2023.
Ge confirmed the successful operation of the Chang’e-6 spacecraft, highlighting the dedication and preparations made by government organs and scientific institutions in both China and Pakistan.
The cooperation holds immense significance in fostering friendly relations and advancing lunar exploration endeavors, with a commitment to sharing scientific achievements to pave the way for future collaborative missions.
China and Pakistan have inked a cooperation agreement on the International Lunar Research Station, with ongoing discussions for Pakistan’s participation in the Chang’e-8 mission and borrowing lunar samples from the Chang’e-5 mission.
Ambassador Khalil Hashmi lauded the Chang’e-6 mission as a testament to China’s commitment to meaningful international cooperation, underscoring Pakistan’s progress in space exploration.
He emphasized the bilateral roadmap for future collaboration, including knowledge exchange, research visits, and resource-sharing, highlighting the mission’s potential to spur higher education in space sciences in Pakistan.
Syed Amer Ahsan Gilani of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission emphasized the vital role of space cooperation in bilateral relations, emphasizing the benefits for education and research.
Project manager Khurram Khurshid expressed excitement over ICUBE-Q’s progress toward the moon’s south pole, underscoring the dedication of students who contributed to the satellite’s development and eagerly await the results.
The successful collaboration between China and Pakistan in space exploration not only signifies their strong bilateral ties but also highlights their commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering global cooperation in outer space exploration.
