Pakistan is set to send its first astronaut into space from China on November 25, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced on Sunday, marking a major step in the country’s ambitions for human spaceflight.
According to state-run Radio Pakistan, Iqbal made the announcement while addressing the concluding ceremony of World Space Week 2026 in Narowal. He said cooperation with China would help Pakistan advance its space exploration programme and develop expertise in space science and technology.
The minister also announced plans to establish Pakistan’s first Space Museum at the University of Narowal to promote scientific awareness and encourage young people to pursue careers in scientific research and space technology.
Pakistan prepares for first human space mission
Pakistan’s first astronaut is expected to travel to China’s Tiangong space station under a bilateral human spaceflight programme between the two countries.
Two Pakistani candidates, Khurram Daud and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali, have been undergoing training in China. One of them will be selected for the mission.
According to Reuters, the selected astronaut will serve as a payload specialist and conduct scientific experiments aboard the space station. The mission is part of broader cooperation between Pakistan and China to strengthen their capabilities in space research and technology.
Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) signed an agreement with the China Manned Space Agency in February 2025 to prepare a Pakistani astronaut for the mission.
The planned flight represents an important milestone for Pakistan’s space programme, which has traditionally focused on satellite technology, communications and scientific research.
Pakistan targets lunar mission by 2035
Iqbal also reiterated Pakistan’s ambition to reach the Moon by 2035, with China expected to play a significant role in advancing the country’s lunar exploration plans.
The two countries are collaborating on a Pakistani lunar rover intended for China’s Chang’e-8 mission, which is expected to take place around 2028, Reuters reported.
The rover is designed to contribute to lunar exploration through technologies such as autonomous navigation and imaging. The project forms part of wider efforts to expand Pakistan’s participation in international space research.
Cooperation with China is expected to provide Pakistan with opportunities to develop technical expertise and gain experience in complex space missions.
Pakistan’s space dream nears liftoff as China prepares to select first astronaut
First Space Museum planned at University of Narowal
During the World Space Week ceremony, Iqbal announced plans to establish Pakistan’s first Space Museum at the University of Narowal.
The proposed museum aims to raise public awareness of space science, scientific research and modern technology. It is also intended to inspire students to explore scientific disciplines and consider careers in space research and engineering.
Iqbal said World Space Week had been celebrated in Narowal for the first time in collaboration with Suparco under his vision, with a focus on introducing young people to developments in space science and technology.
The planned museum is expected to complement these educational efforts by providing a dedicated platform for scientific awareness and learning.
Pakistan and China expand space cooperation
Pakistan’s planned astronaut mission, lunar rover project and proposed Space Museum reflect the country’s broader ambitions to expand its role in space science.
China’s support is expected to remain central to these efforts, particularly in human spaceflight training, lunar exploration and the development of technical capabilities.
If the November 25 mission proceeds as announced, it will mark a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space programme and open new opportunities for the country’s participation in human spaceflight and international scientific research.
