AFTER a 40-day voyage originating from the Sathish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India’s Chandrayaan-3 successfully touched down on the moon’s surface. This achievement grants India entry into an exclusive consortium of countries that have achieved the remarkable feat of executing a soft lunar landing. Prior to Chandrayaan’s mission, this distinguished group comprised solely of Russia, China and the United States.
Such achievements are not just about the prestige they bring; they symbolize human ingenuity, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring generations to dream bigger. Yet, a pertinent question arises: What tangible benefits does lunar exploration bring to humanity on Earth? It is true that, so far, the direct dividends might seem limited. But history teaches us that scientific exploration often yields unexpected breakthroughs that find their way into our daily lives. Technologies initially developed for space missions, like satellite communication and GPS, have become integral to modern society. Turning our gaze toward Pakistan, it is evident that the nation’s space program, led by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), has yet to reach the heights achieved by its neighbours. While it is easy to criticize this apparent lag, it is important to recognize the economic realities that countries face. Our financial constraints make it challenging to allocate substantial resources to space endeavours, especially given the hefty price tag associated with such missions. Space exploration is not merely about planting flags on distant celestial bodies; it is about unlocking the secrets of the universe, advancing our understanding of fundamental sciences, and fostering innovation. It is important that Pakistan also re-evaluate its investment in scientific research. Space exploration we believe is an investment in the future and our talented scientists and researchers have the potential and capabilities to contribute significantly to this field, provided they are given the necessary resources and support. The spirit that guided Pakistan’s nuclear journey could be harnessed to navigate the complexities of space, allowing the country to leave an indelible mark on the cosmos.
