ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s first astronaut will travel to space on November 25 with support from China, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has said.
Addressing an event, Ahsan Iqbal said China was providing full support to Pakistan in its space programme. He said the Pakistani astronaut would depart from a Chinese space centre.
The minister said Pakistan had set a target of landing on the Moon by 2035. He added that cooperation with China would help Pakistan advance its space research capabilities.
Ahsan Iqbal said space technology was playing a key role in agriculture, communications and national security. He stressed the importance of science and research in helping Pakistan’s young people achieve new milestones.
He also announced plans to establish Pakistan’s first space museum at the University of Narowal.
The minister referred to the Quran’s call for people to reflect on the creation of the universe, emphasising the importance of knowledge, scientific inquiry and research.
Two Pakistani astronauts, Khurram Daud and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali, were sent to China on April 2026 for advanced training. The development comes as SUPARCO prepares for Pakistan’s first-ever participation in a mission aboard the Tiangong space station.
According to officials, a Pakistani astronaut is expected to take part in a Shenzhou mission by the end of 2026, serving as a payload specialist. SUPARCO said the astronaut will conduct multiple scientific experiments in microgravity aboard the space station.
The planned research will cover key fields including material science, biotechnology, and life sciences. Experts believe the findings could play a vital role in addressing challenges related to climate change and food security.