Pakistan will send its first astronaut to space after a cooperation agreement signed between the space investigation commission and the upper atmosphere (Supparco) and the Manitized Space Agency of China (CMSA).
According to the agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at the Chinese astronaut center. Ultimately, one will be selected as a specialist in scientific payload for a future mission to Tiangong, China’s space station. The selection process is expected to end by 2026.
Once aboard the Chinese Space Station (CSS), the Pakistani astronaut will carry out experiments in medical sciences, aerospace, physics, spatial radiation, ecology and astronomy. The objective aims to advance in space technology and contribute to scientific developments with potential benefits for life on earth.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the agreement as a historical moment in Pakistan’s space program, describing it as a cornerstone of the country’s aspirations in the human space flight. He highlighted the constant progress of Pakistan in science and space technology, citing achievements in satellite releases and contributions to global scientific research.
The Minister of Planning and Development, Ahsan IQBAL, emphasized that the association would boost technological innovation and human space flight capabilities. He pointed out that the collaboration with China goes beyond the training of astronauts, laying the foundations for the long -term space exploration ambitions of Pakistan.
The general director of CMSA, Dr. Lin Xiqiang, welcomed Pakistan’s participation, underlining the deep cooperation of space between the two countries. The president of Supparco, Mohammad Yousuf Khan, described the initiative as an important milestone and encouraged professionals and researchers to contribute to the program.
Meanwhile, Supparco has also predicted that Ramadan in Pakistan will begin on Sunday, March 2, depending on his lunar calculations.
With this agreement, Pakistan is taking a significant step towards the human spatial flight, marking a new chapter on his space exploration trip.
