In a groundbreaking leap for global space collaboration, Pakistan is set to send its first-ever astronaut to train at China’s space station! 🇵🇰🇨🇳 The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced that two Pakistani candidates will soon begin training to become payload specialists—with one ultimately traveling to the orbiting lab to conduct experiments.
The selection process, mirroring China’s rigorous astronaut program, involves three phases: preliminary screenings in Pakistan and advanced evaluations in the Chinese mainland. This partnership follows a recent space tech agreement signed between the two allies.
"This mission represents another milestone in international space cooperation," CMSA officials stated, hinting at more countries joining future missions. The chosen astronaut will manage scientific projects in microgravity while supporting station operations—ushering in new opportunities for South Asian space ambitions!
🚀 Why it matters: This mission could inspire STEM interest across Pakistan and open doors for developing nations in space research. Meanwhile, China’s Tiangong station is fast becoming a hub for global science—proving that teamwork transcends borders, even in orbit! 🌍✨
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Pakistani astronaut to join China Space Station as payload specialist
cgtn.com