Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan's inaugural astronaut will journey into space on November 25, marking a significant milestone achieved with Chinese backing.
During his speech on Saturday at the closing ceremony of World Space Week in Narowal, Iqbal revealed the launch date and mentioned that China is assisting Pakistan in sending astronauts aloft.
"With China's cooperation, Pakistan will reach new heights in the field of space research," stated the minister.
Moon Landing Target Set for 2035
According to Iqbal, Pakistan aims to land on the moon by 2035. He called satellite technology one of the most vital fields globally and for Pakistan, noting its connection to national security.
While pointing out that international discussions now look past the moon toward human settlements on Mars, he warned, "If we do not conduct research, we will fall behind in the race for development."
The minister additionally called for youth to ask questions and build curious habits. "Pakistan will have to regain the leadership in knowledge and research that was once our identity," he said.
Space Museum and Tech Centre Planned for Narowal
Iqbal mentioned that the University of Narowal secured first place at the Islamabad Science Festival. He stated that building a centre for advanced technology and emerging sciences at the campus will start this year, after stalling under the prior administration.
Funds have also been secured to establish the nation's first space museum at the University of Narowal, he noted.
Who Could Be Pakistan's First Astronaut
This upcoming flight forms part of broader space collaboration between Beijing and Islamabad. Reuters reports that two Pakistani pilots, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, underwent training at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center in Beijing after being chosen from about 20 finalists from a bigger pool of local pilots and scientists.
The training regimen included learning the Chinese language, studying spacecraft systems, and preparing for microgravity and launch g-forces.
One of these two individuals will become the first Pakistani and the first foreign astronaut to board China's Tiangong space station. Working as a payload specialist during a stay lasting about a week, the chosen astronaut will run Pakistani scientific tests.
Earlier, the administration proposed Rs. 1.29 billion for the Pakistan Manned Space Mission inside the 2026-27 development budget. Both nations are additionally developing a domestic lunar rover slated to launch on China's Chang'e 8 lunar mission near 2028.
