Pakistani astronauts to be trained by China for mission to Tiangong Space Station
The Chinese
Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has unveiled plans to train two Pakistani
astronauts, marking a significant milestone in China-Pakistan space
cooperation. One of the trainees will make history as the first foreign
astronaut to visit China’s Tiangong Space
Station, underscoring the deepening partnership between the two nations in
space technology and exploration.
CMSA spokesperson Zhang Jingbo
announced that the selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training
alongside Chinese counterparts. The astronaut ultimately chosen for the mission
will serve as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments on behalf
of Pakistan during a short-term stay aboard Tiangong. The initiative follows a bilateral
cooperation agreement signed between China and Pakistan in February 2025.
Read More Pakistan
signs agreement with China to send first Pakistani astronaut to space
The astronaut selection process involves three stages — preliminary, secondary, and final selection. The initial phase is currently underway in Pakistan, while subsequent stages will take place in China. Preparations for the next phase include finalizing training modules, instructional materials, and logistical arrangements to ensure comprehensive preparation for both astronauts.
Pakistan’s participation in this
program represents a major step forward for its space ambitions. Historically,
the country’s space activities have been led by SUPARCO (the Pakistan Space and Upper
Atmosphere Research Commission), which has relied heavily on China for
technical assistance and satellite launches. Most of Pakistan’s satellites to
date have been developed and launched with Chinese collaboration.
Commenting on the initiative, Zhang
Jingbo emphasized China’s commitment to international cooperation in space
exploration, stating:
“We actively welcome foreign
astronauts to participate in missions to the Chinese space station, fostering
global collaboration and scientific exchange.”
Read More Pakistani
astronaut to be first foreign national on China’s Tiangong Space Station
This development follows a broader regional trend in advancing human spaceflight. Earlier in June 2025, an Indian Air Force test pilot became the second Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission organized by the United States.
As China continues to expand the Tiangong
Space Station, which hosts ongoing research and maintains a permanent crew in
low Earth orbit, this partnership with Pakistan marks a new era of cooperation.
The initiative not only enhances Pakistan’s role in global space exploration
but also reflects China’s growing leadership in opening new frontiers for
international participation in space.
Source: https://news.ssbcrack.com/