Key Takeaways
- Pakistan’s first astronaut will travel to space on November 25.
- The mission is part of a wider space cooperation between Pakistan and China.
- Two Pakistani pilots, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, are training for the mission.
Pakistan is set to achieve a significant milestone in its space programme as the country’s first astronaut will travel to space on November 25, according to Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
The mission, carried out with China’s support, marks a major step forward for Pakistan’s space research capabilities.
Iqbal announced the date during the closing ceremony of World Space Week in Narowal, emphasizing the importance of satellite technology for national security and development.
Pakistan has set a target of landing on the moon by 2035, with global discussions now moving towards establishing human settlements on Mars.
The minister urged young people to develop a curiosity for knowledge and research, highlighting the need for Pakistan to regain its leadership in these fields.
Construction of a centre for advanced technology and emerging sciences at the University of Narowal is set to begin this year, along with the planning of Pakistan’s first space museum.
Two Pakistani pilots, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, have been selected for China’s space mission from around 20 finalists.
Their training includes Chinese language lessons, spacecraft systems, and preparation for microgravity and g-forces experienced during launch.
One of the two will become the first Pakistani and the first foreign astronaut to travel aboard China’s Tiangong space station, serving as a payload specialist and conducting Pakistani scientific experiments during a stay of about a week in space.
With China’s cooperation, Pakistan will reach new heights in the field of space research.
Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister
