In a move that signals serious intent in the global space race, Pakistan has unveiled its ambition to land a spacecraft on the Moon by 2035. The goal marks a new direction for the country’s space policy, one that’s no longer content with low-orbit achievements.

The announcement came from Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, following the successful launch of Pakistan’s fourth Earth Observation Satellite. The mission, built in collaboration with China, showcases both Pakistan’s expanding technological reach and its growing international partnerships.

Not Just Satellites Anymore

For decades, Pakistan’s space program has flown under the radar, making steady, if quiet, progress. But this latest declaration reframes the conversation. The Moon is no longer out of reach.

While the newly launched EO satellite is designed to serve practical needs like urban development, climate mapping, and food security, its symbolic value may be just as powerful. It shows the country is thinking bigger — and beyond the atmosphere.

China’s Role in the Journey

The project deepens the ongoing collaboration with China under the CPEC umbrella. From physical infrastructure to digital and now orbital, the partnership continues to evolve.

Chinese firms including BOMETEC and CETC International helped fast-track the satellite’s production, while technical support from China’s space agency has laid the foundation for future joint ventures, possibly including the eventual Moon mission itself.

Why the Moon? Why Now?

The timing isn’t random. With the global space economy projected to exceed $1 trillion in the next 15 years, countries are rushing to secure their foothold, not just for exploration, but for resource development, communications, and geopolitical influence.

Pakistan’s 2035 Moon goal is as much about signaling capability as it is about scientific discovery. It’s about telling the world (and its own youth) that space isn’t just for global superpowers.