ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the official name of Pakistan’s first lunar rover, naming it “Jinnah-1.”
According to SUPARCO, the name was selected from suggestions received through a nationwide competition. More than 4,000 proposals were submitted from across the country, while the name “Jinnah-1” was proposed by seven participants.
Officials said the winner was selected through a draw, with 17-year-old Tayyab Karim from Bahawalnagar declared the winner.
Addressing the ceremony, SUPARCO Chairman said the name “Jinnah-1” pays tribute to the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He said the name also represents Pakistan’s determination, progress and new horizons in space exploration.
According to SUPARCO, Pakistan’s first lunar rover will be sent to the Moon in 2029 through 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’s geography. It will also play a role in important experiments related to future lunar research and human presence on the Moon.
SUPARCO said “Jinnah-1” would mark an important milestone in Pakistan’s journey of space exploration and help open new avenues in the country’s scientific and technological sectors.