
Although Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the launch of Pakistan’s first domestic Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre on Friday as a major accomplishment, it soon became the target of social media mockery.
Sharif celebrated the mission’s success on X, describing it as a proud occasion for the country. He commended the efforts of Pakistan’s scientists and engineers as well as the work of SUPARCO, the country’s space agency.
“Ascending ever higher! At the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in China, the country proudly launches its first domestic Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite, marking a proud moment,” Sharif said.

“From forecasting agricultural yields to monitoring urban expansion, #EO1 represents a significant advancement in our quest for advancement. This, led by SUPARCO, exemplifies our country’s expanding space research and technological capabilities. “Congratulations to our engineers and scientists for their hard work and excellent teamwork,” the prime minister of Pakistan continued.

However, the launch of the satellite immediately prompted a flurry of internet jokes and memes, with many users comparing the rocket’s form to that of a water truck. Many others started trolling about the resemblance, with some people sharing pictures of water tanks next to the satellite’s image.
“Sintex ka design chori karke china ko bechta hai?” one user remarked, while another said, “Abe kiski paani ki tanki chura liyo ho be.” referring to a popular water tank brand.
Some users joked that the rocket was full of water in other memes that included photoshopped photographs of the rocket shaped like a water tank.

There was praise for the milestone despite the online jeering, with many people praising Pakistan’s advancements in space technology. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also took to X to declare the launch a “significant achievement,” while other users praised the accomplishment, calling it a “proud moment” for the country.
Pakistan’s space agency, Suparco, emphasised the useful advantages of the EO-1 satellite, including better urban planning, agricultural surveillance, and disaster management. Additionally, they stressed how the satellite would support sustainable development by serving peaceful aims.