Pakistan names first lunar rover ‘Jinnah-1’

Pakistan’s first lunar rover has officially been named “Jinnah-1”, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) announced on Thursday.

The name was selected by a jury after a comprehensive review of more than 4,000 entries received from across the country in a nationwide naming competition, reflecting strong public interest in Pakistan’s space exploration programme.

According to SUPARCO, seven participants had proposed the name “Jinnah-1”. A draw was subsequently held during a special ceremony to select the winner fairly among the participants.

Addressing the ceremony, SUPARCO Chairman Muhammad Yousuf Khan appreciated the enthusiastic participation of citizens and highlighted the national significance of naming the rover after Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.

“Jinnah-1 is not merely a name but a symbol — of resilience, determination and the pursuit of progress that was exemplified by our founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah,” he said.

“By naming our first lunar rover after him, we are sending a strong message to the world that Pakistan is ready to carry forward its legacy, determination, hard work and leadership to new frontiers, particularly in the realm of space,” he added.

SUPARCO said Jinnah-1 will be launched to the Moon’s south pole in 2029 as part of China’s Chang’E-8 mission.

The locally developed rover will be equipped with advanced scientific instruments to study lunar plasma and radiation, map the geographical features of the lunar surface, and conduct experiments vital for future lunar research and sustainable human presence on the Moon.

The mission marks a significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to expand its capabilities in space science and lunar exploration.