Pakistan to participate in China's manned missions to space
In a significant leap forward for Pakistan's
space ambitions, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission
(SUPARCO) has signed a cooperation agreement with the China Manned Space Agency
(CMSA) of the People's Republic of China. This agreement paves the way for
Pakistan's first astronaut to embark on a mission to Tiangong, the Chinese
Space Station (CSS).
As part of the agreement, two Pakistani
astronauts will undergo training at China's Astronaut Center. One astronaut
will specialize as a scientific payload expert, preparing to conduct research
aboard the CSS. The astronaut selection process is set to be completed by 2026,
with the goal of launching in an upcoming mission scheduled by CSS.
The first Pakistani astronaut mission to the CSS will focus on conducting groundbreaking scientific experiments across various fields, such as biological and medical sciences, aerospace, applied physics, fluid dynamics, space radiation, ecology, material sciences, microgravity studies, and astronomy. The CSS is equipped with state-of-the-art experimental racks and external adapters, enabling research across multiple domains. These experiments are expected to result in significant advances in medical research, environmental monitoring, and space technology, with potential benefits for life on Earth.
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At the signing ceremony, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz
Sharif, described the agreement as a monumental step in the nation’s
space exploration efforts. He emphasized that this event would be remembered as
a milestone in Pakistan's human spaceflight aspirations. He also praised the country’s
achievements in space science and technology, noting its successes in satellite
launches and the development of indigenous expertise contributing to global
scientific progress.
Minister
for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Mr. Ahsan Iqbal,
hailed the agreement as a historic milestone, highlighting its potential to
accelerate technological innovation, capacity building, and research. He
pointed out that the collaboration with China goes beyond astronaut training,
forming the foundation for Pakistan’s long-term ambitions in human spaceflight
and exploration.
Dr. Lin Xiqiang, the Director General of China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), expressed his excitement about the partnership and reiterated China’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in space exploration. He emphasized that Pakistan’s involvement in the China Space Station program strengthens the strong ties between the two nations and contributes to global knowledge-sharing for peaceful space exploration that benefits humanity.
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Chairman
SUPARCO, Mr. Muhammad Yousaf Khan, considered the agreement a landmark
in Pakistan’s space journey. He encouraged youth, professionals, and academia
to engage in Pakistan’s astronaut program, urging them to contribute to the
nation’s space exploration efforts through research, innovation, and skill
development.
This mission will elevate Pakistan’s position in the global space community, driving advancements in scientific research and technological innovation. The research conducted aboard the CSS will provide invaluable insights into space science and contribute to the development of cutting-edge solutions, further solidifying Pakistan’s role in international space exploration.
Source: SUPARCO