Islamabad: Pakistan has officially named its first lunar rover “Jinnah-1” after reviewing more than 4,000 entries submitted in a nationwide naming competition.
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) selected the name after receiving proposals from people across the country.
17-Year-Old Wins Naming Competition
Seven participants proposed the name “Jinnah-1”.
SUPARCO selected the winner through a lucky draw. Tayyab Karim, a 17-year-old from Bahawalnagar, won the competition.
The selection marks a major moment for Pakistan’s growing space programme.
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SUPARCO Calls Jinnah-1 a Symbol of Progress
The SUPARCO chairman said the name “Jinnah-1” represents more than the country’s first lunar rover.
He described it as a symbol of resilience, determination and progress.
The name also pays tribute to Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Jinnah-1 to Travel to Moon in 2029
According to SUPARCO, Pakistan plans to send the Jinnah-1 lunar rover to the Moon in 2029.
The rover will travel as part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission.
Pakistan is developing the rover locally as part of its efforts to expand its capabilities in space science and technology.
Rover Will Study the Moon’s South Pole
Jinnah-1 will conduct scientific research and experiments on the Moon.
The rover is expected to operate near the lunar south pole, an area that has attracted growing interest from space agencies around the world.
Its mission could help Pakistani scientists and engineers gain valuable experience in lunar exploration.
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Pakistan Expands Its Space Programme
The planned lunar mission represents another step in Pakistan’s space programme.
Through Jinnah-1, Pakistani researchers will have an opportunity to contribute to scientific work beyond Earth.
The mission could also encourage young people to pursue education and careers in space science, engineering and technology.
