Pakistan names first lunar rover Jinnah-1

Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced the name of its first lunar rover, Jinnah-1. The approximately 35-kilogram rover is intended to explore the lunar south polar region.

The mission is being developed in cooperation with China and is scheduled to travel aboard China’s Chang’e-8 mission, likely within the 2028-29 timeframe. Once deployed, Jinnah-1 will conduct scientific investigations and technology demonstrations, focusing on the lunar environment, surface, and geology.

The name Jinnah-1 was selected through a nationwide public competition that received over 4,000 submissions. It honors Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, and symbolizes the nation's scientific and technological aspirations.