ISLAMABAD: Two Pakistani astronauts have been selected as candidates for China’s human spaceflight programme, marking a major milestone in Pakistan’s space ambitions, according to reports from China Central Television. The selected candidates — Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud — successfully cleared multiple rounds of evaluation and will soon travel to China for advanced training.
One of them is expected to join a future mission as a payload specialist, potentially becoming the first foreign astronaut aboard China’s space station. The China Manned Space Agency described the development as a landmark moment for its space programme, highlighting growing international collaboration. Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission confirmed that both astronauts will train at the Astronaut Centre of China.
The initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader effort to enter the field of human spaceflight. Under this cooperation, Pakistan is preparing to send its first astronaut to the Tiangong space station, with the mission expected in late 2026.
During the mission, the Pakistani astronaut will conduct experiments in microgravity across several fields, including material science, fluid physics, life sciences, and biotechnology. These studies are expected to contribute to advancements in climate resilience, food security, and industrial development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the achievement, calling it a significant step toward deep space exploration and a reflection of strong Pakistan-China ties. The selection follows a cooperation agreement signed in 2025 between SUPARCO and CMSA, under which two Pakistani astronauts were shortlisted for training, with one designated to participate in a future mission.
China has expanded its independent space programme, including the development of the Tiangong station, after being excluded from the International Space Station programme in 2011. Since then, it has strengthened partnerships with countries like Pakistan to advance its space exploration goals.
