RAWALPINDI: Pakistan has achieved a major milestone in its Human Spaceflight Programme, with two astronaut candidates successfully completing the secondary phase of selection, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Saturday.
Following an initial screening in Pakistan, the candidates underwent comprehensive medical, psychological, and aptitude evaluations at the Astronauts Centre of China (ACC), in line with international human spaceflight standards. Both have now been shortlisted to advance to the next stage of training.
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The selected candidates will embark on a six-month advanced astronaut training program at ACC. Upon completion, one individual will be chosen for a spaceflight mission aboard the Chinese Space Station (CSS), planned for October or November 2026.
#ISPR
Rawalpindi, 07 February, 2026Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has achieved yet another significant milestone in #Pakistan’s Human Spaceflight Programme with the successful completion of the secondary phase of astronaut candidates’ selection.… pic.twitter.com/LlEv70rud6
— Pakistan Armed Forces News 🇵🇰 (@PakistanFauj) February 7, 2026
This initiative is part of the bilateral “Astronaut Cooperation Agreement” signed in February 2025, which formalized Pakistan’s participation in China’s human spaceflight program. The agreement reflects the strong support of both governments, with Pakistan becoming the first foreign partner in China’s astronaut program.
The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) confirmed that preparations for the training—including instructional materials, equipment setup, and logistical arrangements—are already underway. During the mission, the Pakistani astronaut will participate in routine space station operations and conduct scientific experiments on behalf of Pakistan.
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ISPR described the development as a historic milestone for Pakistan-China cooperation, highlighting the growing partnership between the two countries in science, technology, and space exploration.
The Human Spaceflight Programme represents a significant step for Pakistan in advancing its space capabilities and international collaboration, signaling the country’s ambition to join the ranks of nations with human spaceflight experience.