Pakistan is set to make history by sending its first astronauts to space under a landmark agreement signed between the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). The cooperation paves the way for Pakistan’s participation in human spaceflight, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations.
Landmark Agreement with China
The agreement, signed in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space journey. Under this collaboration, two Pakistani astronauts will receive training at the Astronaut Center of China. One of them will be designated as a scientific payload specialist, preparing for specialized research aboard the China Space Station (CSS).
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The astronaut selection process is expected to conclude by 2026, after which the selected candidate will join a Chinese crew in an upcoming space mission. This initiative represents Pakistan’s first step into manned space exploration and aligns with China’s vision of international cooperation in space research.
Scientific Research in Space
The Pakistani astronaut will conduct advanced scientific experiments across multiple disciplines, including:
- Biological and Medical Sciences – Studying the effects of space on human physiology and potential advancements in medicine.
- Aerospace and Applied Physics – Enhancing Pakistan’s understanding of spaceflight dynamics.
- Fluid Mechanics and Space Radiation – Researching how fluids behave in microgravity and the impact of cosmic radiation.
- Ecology and Material Sciences – Studying sustainable space technologies.
- Microgravity Studies and Astronomy – Contributing to global knowledge of space environments.
The CSS is equipped with state-of-the-art experimental racks and external adaptors, enabling cutting-edge research that could have significant applications for life on Earth.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Remarks
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the agreement as a defining moment in Pakistan’s space exploration journey. He acknowledged China’s support and emphasized that the partnership would further deepen bilateral cooperation.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s progress in satellite launches and technological development, expressing confidence that this mission would enhance the country’s position in the global space community. The prime minister encouraged Pakistani youth, professionals, and academia to actively engage in space research and innovation.
China’s Commitment to International Space Cooperation
Dr. Lin Xiqiang, Director General of CMSA, reaffirmed China’s dedication to strengthening global partnerships in space exploration. He stated that Pakistan’s participation in the China Space Station program reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries.
China has previously expressed openness to welcoming foreign astronauts into its space program. Officials, including Yang Liwei, China’s first astronaut, and Lin Xiqiang, have reiterated their willingness to work with other nations in human spaceflight. The CSS is one of the largest independently built space stations, currently orbiting 400 kilometers above Earth.
Pakistan’s Space Journey
The highest altitude a Pakistani has previously reached is 87.4 km, achieved by Namira Salim during a suborbital flight with Virgin Galactic in 2023. This new mission will significantly surpass that milestone, as Pakistan enters the realm of orbital spaceflight.
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal described the agreement as a “historic milestone,” emphasizing that it lays the foundation for Pakistan’s long-term human spaceflight ambitions. Suparco Chairman Mohammad Yousuf Khan also expressed optimism about the program, urging Pakistani youth and professionals to contribute to space exploration efforts.
A Model for Developing Nations
The agreement between Suparco and CMSA serves as a model for other developing countries seeking to enter human spaceflight. By collaborating with China, Pakistan is gaining access to advanced training and research opportunities that would otherwise be challenging to achieve independently.
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The research conducted aboard the CSS is expected to yield valuable insights, driving advancements in medical research, environmental monitoring, and space technology. These findings could contribute to Pakistan’s scientific and technological progress while reinforcing its role in international space exploration.