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Pakistan’s space ambitions just received a massive boost. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Saturday that the Astronauts Centre of China (ACC) has shortlisted two candidates for the country’s Human Spaceflight Programme. This selection brings Pakistan one step closer to sending its first astronaut into orbit.
This development follows a major cooperation agreement signed in February 2025. Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) partnered with the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) to make this mission possible.
Rigorous Selection Process
The road to selection was demanding. Initially, candidates passed a screening process within Pakistan. Subsequently, they travelled to the Astronauts Centre of China (ACC) for the secondary phase.
There, they underwent comprehensive assessments. These included medical, psychological, and aptitude tests. The ISPR confirmed that these evaluations adhered strictly to international human spaceflight standards. Now, the secondary selection phase is officially complete.
Space Training & Launch Timeline
The journey is far from over. Under the bilateral agreement, both shortlisted candidates will undergo six months of “advanced astronaut training” at the ACC. However, only one will make the final cut for the launch.
The selected astronaut is scheduled to join a mission to the Tiangong space station in October or November 2026.
CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang confirmed the astronaut’s role. The individual will serve as a payload specialist. Their duties will include conducting scientific experiments on behalf of Pakistan and performing standard crew tasks aboard the station.
A Historic Partnership
This initiative marks a significant diplomatic milestone. China selected Pakistan as the first foreign partner for its astronaut program. This collaboration is vital for Beijing, as the US has barred China from the International Space Station since 2011.
The ISPR highlighted that the 2025 “Astronaut Cooperation Agreement” was signed under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. His support was instrumental in securing Pakistan’s participation in this historic human spaceflight mission.
