The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has shortlisted two astronaut candidates after completing the secondary phase of selection for its Human Spaceflight Programme. The candidates underwent thorough medical, psychological, and aptitude evaluations at the Astronauts Centre of China (ACC) following initial screening in Pakistan.
These two candidates will now participate in a six-month advanced training program at ACC. After the training, one candidate will be chosen to join a space mission aboard the Chinese Space Station, scheduled for October or November 2026. This collaboration is part of a bilateral agreement signed in February 2025, supporting Pakistan’s involvement in human spaceflight.
**Why this matters**
This milestone marks a significant step for Pakistan’s space ambitions, highlighting its growing cooperation with China in space exploration. The mission will make Pakistan one of the few countries with astronauts trained for spaceflight, advancing its scientific and technological capabilities.
Source: NewsData