ISLAMABAD – In a groundbreaking development, Pakistan is set to send its first astronaut into space by 2026, under a landmark collaboration between the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
🚀 Training & Selection
Two Pakistani candidates have been shortlisted to undergo extensive training at China’s Astronaut Center. After rigorous evaluation, one will be chosen as a Scientific Payload Specialist to fly aboard China’s Tiangong Space Station (CSS).
🔬 Research in Orbit
Once in space, Pakistan’s astronaut will carry out experiments in biology, medical sciences, ecology, space radiation, fluid mechanics, material sciences, microgravity, and astronomy. This mission will not only boost Pakistan’s scientific capabilities but also inspire a new generation of researchers.
🌍 A Historic First
This will be the first time a foreign astronaut joins the Chinese space station, making the mission a milestone in space diplomacy. It cements the growing strategic partnership between Islamabad and Beijing.
🗣 Voices of Leadership
Federal Minister for Planning & Development Ahsan Iqbal confirmed Pakistan’s aim to achieve this milestone by 2026, calling it “a proud step that will place Pakistan among the select nations with a human presence in space.”
SUPARCO officials hailed the project as a cornerstone of the country’s long-term human spaceflight ambitions.
📌 Background & Global Context
China recently launched its Shenzhou-20 mission, expanding Tiangong’s capacity for international cooperation.
Pakistan, which has previously launched satellites with China’s support, will now leap into human spaceflight for the very first time.
The mission is widely seen as a symbol of Pakistan-China scientific friendship.
🌠 Why It Matters
For Pakistan, this is more than just a journey into orbit—it’s a giant leap into the future of science and technology. The mission will enhance research opportunities, elevate Pakistan’s global profile, and mark a proud chapter in the nation’s history.
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