Pakistan Shortlists Candidates for Landmark Space Mission.
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Beyond Earth: Two Pakistani candidates have been selected for advanced astronaut training in China, with one set to launch in late 2026.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that two candidates have advanced following comprehensive medical, psychological, and aptitude assessments in China. This initiative is anchored by the Astronaut Cooperation Agreement signed in February 2025, which positioned Pakistan as the first foreign partner in China’s astronaut programme.
Mission Highlights and Timeline
- Advanced Training: Both shortlisted candidates will now undertake six months of intensive training at the ACC.
- Final Selection: Upon completing the training, one candidate will be finalized to join the spaceflight mission.
- Launch Date: The mission is scheduled to take place in October or November 2026.
- Scientific Objectives: The Pakistani astronaut will serve as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments on behalf of Pakistan while managing routine duties aboard the space station.
A New Frontier for Science
This collaboration underscores the strategic synergy between the two nations, providing the Pakistani scientific community with unprecedented access to microgravity research and orbital operations.
