Pakistan is preparing for its first astronaut mission, with the country’s first astronaut expected to travel into space from a Chinese space centre on November 25, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said on Sunday.
The mission is part of Pakistan’s growing cooperation with China in the field of space exploration. Iqbal also said Pakistan aims to land on the Moon by 2035, reflecting the country’s longer-term plans for space research and exploration.
Two Pakistani pilots, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, are currently undergoing training in Beijing as candidates for the mission. One of the two is expected to be selected for the spaceflight.
The astronaut will serve as a payload specialist rather than operating the spacecraft. In this role, the selected astronaut will conduct Pakistan’s scientific experiments and research activities while in orbit.
The mission is expected to provide Pakistan with an opportunity to expand its experience in human spaceflight and scientific research. It could also support the development of expertise in areas related to space science, technology and research.
China has not yet officially confirmed which of the two pilots will be selected for the mission. The launch date also remains subject to confirmation from Chinese authorities.
Pakistan has been working with China on several space-related projects through cooperation between the two countries’ space agencies. The planned astronaut mission represents another step in this partnership and could contribute to Pakistan’s future space programme.
The country’s stated goal of reaching the Moon by 2035 would require continued investment in scientific research, technology and astronaut training. Such efforts could also create opportunities for Pakistani researchers and institutions to participate in international space-related programmes.
