Pakistan is preparing to make history as China has confirmed that a Pakistani astronaut will join its upcoming Shenzhou-24 space mission. The breakthrough will mark Pakistan’s first human spaceflight and the first participation of a foreign astronaut in China’s crewed space programme.
The China Manned Space Agency announced the development on November 7, 2026. The selected Pakistani astronaut will travel to China’s Tiangong space station as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments during a short stay in orbit.
Who Will Be Pakistan’s First Astronaut?
Two Pakistani candidates, Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, have undergone extensive training at China’s astronaut training centre in Beijing.
Both were selected through a rigorous three-stage assessment process involving physical fitness, psychological evaluations and technical examinations.
However, Chinese authorities have not publicly confirmed which candidate will undertake the mission. One will travel into space, while the other will serve as a backup.
What Will the Pakistani Astronaut Do in Space?
The astronaut will conduct scientific experiments focusing on biotechnology, food security and climate-related challenges.
Pakistan’s space agency, SUPARCO, received more than 300 research proposals before four experiments were selected for the mission.
Following the mission, the astronaut will return to Earth aboard China’s Shenzhou-23 spacecraft.
When Will Pakistan’s Historic Space Mission Launch?
Although the Shenzhou-24 mission has been officially announced, Chinese authorities have not confirmed its launch date.
The mission follows a cooperation agreement signed between Pakistan and China in February 2025.
Interestingly, the Shenzhou-24 mission emblem incorporates jasmine, Pakistan’s national flower, symbolizing the partnership between the two countries.
The historic mission represents a major milestone for Pakistan’s scientific development and expanding international space cooperation.
