Pakistan has taken a major step in its space exploration program. Two Pakistani astronauts have been selected for China’s human spaceflight program. This marks an important milestone for the country’s scientific progress.
The selected astronauts are Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud. Both will travel to China for advanced training. They will train under a joint human spaceflight initiative.
Officials said the astronauts will begin training at the Astronaut Centre of China. The training will prepare them for future space missions. One candidate is expected to serve as a payload specialist.
If selected for the mission, one of the astronauts will become the first foreign astronaut to visit China’s space station. This would be a historic achievement for Pakistan.
The SUPARCO confirmed the development. It said the astronauts will soon leave for China to begin training.
The mission is part of Pakistan’s planned participation in a flight to the China Space Station. This space mission is expected to take place in late 2026. It will be Pakistan’s first involvement in a human spaceflight program of this scale.
Officials said the selection of astronauts reflects a major advancement in Pakistan’s space journey. It places the country among a small group of nations involved in human space missions.
During the mission, the Pakistani astronaut will conduct experiments in microgravity. These experiments will focus on material science, fluid physics, life sciences, and biotechnology.
The research is expected to support practical applications. These include climate resilience, food security, and industrial innovation. Experts believe the results could benefit future scientific development.
The selection follows an agreement signed between SUPARCO and the China Manned Space Agency in February 2025. Under this agreement, Pakistan was given access to astronaut training opportunities in China.
Officials said this partnership strengthens cooperation between the two countries. It also supports China’s expanding international human spaceflight program.
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The inclusion of Pakistani astronauts in this mission is being seen as a historic step. It reflects growing ambition in Pakistan’s space science and research sector.
