Pakistan is set to launch its first hyperspectral satellite, marking a major advancement in its space and remote sensing capabilities. The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission has confirmed that the HS-1 satellite will be launched on 19 October 2025 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China. This development reflects Pakistan’s growing commitment to leveraging space technology for national development and scientific research.
HS-1 is designed to deliver high-resolution hyperspectral imaging across a wide range of sectors. In agriculture, the satellite will enable precision farming by providing detailed data on crop health, soil moisture levels, and irrigation efficiency. These insights are expected to improve crop yield estimates by 15 to 20 percent, contributing to greater food security and more efficient agricultural planning.
In urban development, HS-1 will play a critical role in tracking environmental changes, mapping infrastructure, and analyzing urban expansion. Its ability to capture unique spectral signatures of buildings and land surfaces will support informed city planning, effective land use monitoring, and better resource allocation in rapidly growing urban areas.
The satellite will also enhance Pakistan’s disaster management capabilities. Its advanced imaging systems will support early warning and rapid response efforts in areas vulnerable to floods, landslides, and other natural hazards, particularly along the Karakoram Highway and in northern regions. The data provided by HS-1 will assist in post-disaster assessments, infrastructure analysis, and water resource management by delivering real-time updates on land degradation, seismic activity, and environmental shifts.
HS-1 will join Pakistan’s growing fleet of Earth observation satellites, including PRSS-1 launched in July 2018, EO-1 launched in January 2025, and KS-1 launched in July 2025. The integration of HS-1 into this network will enhance the country’s ability to monitor and respond to environmental, agricultural, and urban challenges through reliable space-based data.