Pakistan joins China Moon race with Jinnah-1 rover; mission in 2029
Pakistan has named its first lunar rover Jinnah-1 for a 2029 mission. The rover will join China's Chang'e-8 mission to study the Moon's south pole. Jinnah-1 will conduct scientific research on plasma, radiation, and lunar geology. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Pakistan's space program. The mission aims to explore the lunar south pole's potential resources and human activity.
Pakistan has chosen its first lunar rover, "Jinnah-1," in honor of the country's founder, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The rover, named through a nationwide competition receiving over 4,000 proposals, will be part of China's Chang'e-8 mission to explore the Moon's south pole in 2029. Suparco, Pakistan's space agency, revealed the rover's purpose to conduct scientific studies on the lunar surface, including plasma, radiation, and geology.
The 35 kg rover, equipped with tools like a Terrain Testing Instrument and radiation sensors, aims to study the lunar soil, map the surface, and test technologies for future Moon exploration. The mission is expected to attract international cooperation, with 11 countries participating, including Russia, Türkiye, South Africa, and Italy.
This initiative marks a significant milestone for Pakistan's space program, signaling the nation's resolve and progress in space exploration.
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