Pakistan selects two astronauts for China space mission, first flight planned by end-2026

Pakistan has selected two astronaut candidates for its first human spaceflight mission in collaboration with China, with one expected to travel to space by the end of 2026, according to SUPARCO.

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission said Khurram Daud and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali have been shortlisted and sent to China for advanced training as part of preparations for a mission to the China Space Station.

One of the candidates will serve as a payload specialist on a Shenzhou mission, conducting scientific experiments in microgravity.

Officials said the planned research will cover areas including material science, fluid physics, life sciences and biotechnology, with potential applications in climate research, food security and industrial development.

The mission marks Pakistan’s first participation in a crewed space programme, expanding its role beyond satellite operations into human spaceflight.

The government said the initiative reflects ongoing cooperation with China in space technology and research, with the mission expected to strengthen bilateral collaboration in advanced scientific fields.