The launch of Pakistan’s Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-3) from China’s Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre sparked public jubilation over the country’s space ambitions. However, the mood soured when an old photo of the satellite circulated as a recent image, casting doubts on the launch’s success. The satellite, named PRSC-EO3, was launched on April 25 aboard a Chinese Long March-6 rocket, boasting high-resolution imaging capabilities.
The absence of official specifications from SUPARCO led to a viral image circulating on Pakistani social media, erroneously claimed to be the satellite’s first captured photo from orbit. Despite initially boosting national pride, the image’s authenticity was later questioned, revealing it to be an archival photo posted on SUPRACO’s website in 2025. This incident stirred confusion and skepticism among the public, overshadowing the initial excitement.
A report highlighted Pakistan’s tendency to manipulate information for public sentiment, citing past instances of spreading false narratives. The report underscored Pakistan’s history of misleading claims in the space domain, including the acquisition of Paksat-1, which was misrepresented to showcase indigenous space technology superiority over India. The controversy surrounding the fake photo has exposed Pakistan’s deceptive information tactics, tarnishing its credibility in the space arena.
