Space & Science
On November 25, 2026, Pakistan’s first astronaut will depart for a space mission from a Chinese space facility. For this significant mission, two Pakistani pilots—Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Dawood—have undergone specialized space training in China, following rigorous medical, psychological, and technical evaluations. One of these pilots will be finally selected to represent Pakistan aboard the Chinese space station.
The astronaut will not merely visit space; they will also conduct scientific experiments. These experiments will encompass research in biotechnology and life sciences, which could help in addressing future challenges such as food shortages and climate change.
Read more: Pakistan’s first astronaut to depart for a space mission on November 25
Space cooperation between Pakistan and China began in February 2025 with an agreement focused on astronaut training and space missions. This collaboration is now bringing Pakistan’s dream of human spaceflight closer to reality.
“Space cooperation between Pakistan and China is now bringing Pakistan’s dream of human spaceflight closer to reality.”
— On the significance of the missionRemarkably, Pakistan’s ambition extends beyond simply reaching space; the country has also set a goal to reach the Moon by 2035. Both nations are currently working on a Pakistani-made lunar rover, which is planned to be sent to the Moon in the future as part of China’s Chang’e 8 mission.
Furthermore, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has announced the establishment of Pakistan’s first space museum at Narowal University, aimed at fostering an interest in science and space research among the youth.
For Pakistan, this mission on November 25 represents more than just a journey into space; it could serve as a pivotal step toward scientific advancement and the opening of new possibilities for the future.
