Pakistan Names First Lunar Rover “Jinnah-1”

Pakistan’s national space agency, SUPARCO, has officially named the country’s first lunar rover “Jinnah-1” after reviewing more than 4,000 suggestions submitted through a nationwide competition.

The winning name was proposed by 17-year-old Tayyab Karim from Bahawalnagar. He was selected through a lucky draw from seven participants who had suggested the name.

SUPARCO Chairman said the name “Jinnah-1” represents resilience, determination and progress.

According to SUPARCO, the locally developed rover is scheduled to travel to the Moon in 2029 as part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission. The rover will conduct scientific research and experiments near the Moon’s south pole.

The announcement marks another step in Pakistan’s growing involvement in lunar exploration and space science.