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Pakistan will send its first astronaut to China’s Tiangong space station in 2026, becoming the first foreign participant in the mission.
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The initiative stems from a bilateral agreement between SUPARCO and China’s Manned Space Engineering Office.
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The selected astronaut will act as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments and representing Pakistan’s entry into human space exploration.
In a historic breakthrough for Pakistan’s space ambitions, the country is set to send its first astronaut aboard a Chinese space mission to the Tiangong space station in 2026. This milestone will make the Pakistani astronaut the first foreign national to join a mission on China’s Tiangong space station, symbolizing a new era of bilateral space cooperation and scientific exploration.
A Bilateral Leap: Pakistan-China Space Pact
The development follows a strategic agreement signed in February 2025 between Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO (Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission) and China’s Manned Space Engineering Office. The agreement formalizes Pakistan’s inclusion in China’s expanding manned space program and reflects the deepening space collaboration between the two nations.
This partnership paves the way for two Pakistani astronauts to receive professional training in China, with one of them selected to serve as a payload specialist aboard the 2026 mission. This role involves conducting key scientific experiments in orbit — a significant first for Pakistan.
Scientific Ambitions and Global Relevance
The selected astronaut will perform cutting-edge scientific research and experiments on board the Tiangong space station. This opportunity positions Pakistan to contribute meaningfully to the global space science community, strengthening its role in technological innovation and aerospace development.
The mission will also provide Pakistan with invaluable experience in human spaceflight, technology transfer, and international collaboration, potentially opening doors for future joint missions or national space endeavors.
A Symbolic and Strategic Milestone
This event is not only a personal achievement for the astronauts involved but also a symbolic leap for Pakistan’s scientific community. It demonstrates the country’s commitment to harnessing science and technology for national progress and international partnerships. It also underscores China’s growing influence in global space affairs by becoming a host for non-Chinese astronauts aboard its orbital station.
Looking Ahead
With this mission, Pakistan joins a select group of nations that have participated in manned space missions, marking a proud moment for its people and scientific community. As the space race broadens, this collaboration could set the tone for greater international cooperation and inspire a new generation of Pakistani scientists and engineers.
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