Pakistan to send first astronaut to space under China partnership

Pakistan is set to send its first astronaut into space following a cooperation agreement signed between the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

Under the agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at the Astronaut Center of China. One will ultimately be selected as a scientific payload specialist for a future mission to Tiangong, China’s space station. The selection process is expected to conclude by 2026.

Once aboard the Chinese Space Station (CSS), the Pakistani astronaut will conduct experiments in medical sciences, aerospace, physics, space radiation, ecology, and astronomy. The research aims to advance space technology and contribute to scientific developments with potential benefits for life on Earth.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the agreement as a landmark moment in Pakistan’s space programme, describing it as a cornerstone of the country’s aspirations in human spaceflight. He highlighted Pakistan’s steady progress in space science and technology, citing achievements in satellite launches and contributions to global scientific research.

Minister for Planning & Development Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that the partnership would drive technological innovation and human spaceflight capabilities. He noted that collaboration with China goes beyond astronaut training, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s long-term space exploration ambitions.

CMSA Director General Dr Lin Xiqiang welcomed Pakistan’s participation, underscoring the deepening space cooperation between the two countries. SUPARCO Chairman Mohammad Yousuf Khan described the initiative as a major milestone and encouraged professionals and researchers to contribute to the programme.

Meanwhile, SUPARCO has also forecasted that Ramadan in Pakistan will begin on Sunday, March 2, based on its lunar calculations.

With this agreement, Pakistan is taking a significant step toward human spaceflight, marking a new chapter in its space exploration journey.