Asia Pacific
Pakistan’s space agency, SUPARCO, has officially announced the name of the country’s first lunar rover: Jinnah-1.
Pakistan’s space agency, SUPARCO, has officially announced the name of the country’s first lunar rover: Jinnah-1. According to SUPARCO, the name was selected from entries submitted as part of a nationwide competition. More than 4,000 proposals were received from across Pakistan, while the name Jinnah-1 was suggested by seven participants. Officials said the winner was selected through a lucky draw, with 17-year-old Tayyab Karim from Bahawalnagar declared the winner. Addressing the ceremony, the Chairman of SUPARCO said the name Jinnah-1 pays tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. He added that the name also represents Pakistan’s determination, progress, and pursuit of new frontiers in space.
According to SUPARCO, Pakistan’s first lunar rover is scheduled to travel to the Moon in 2029 aboard China’s Chang’e-8 mission. Jinnah-1 will conduct scientific research at the Moon’s south pole .The Pakistani-built lunar rover will study plasma, radiation, and the lunar surface and terrain. It is also expected to contribute to important experiments related to future lunar research and the potential for human presence on the Moon.SUPARCO said Jinnah-1 will mark a major milestone in Pakistan’s space research journey and help open new avenues in the country’s scientific and technological fields.
