Two Pakistani astronaut candidates have been shortlisted

Two Pakistani astronaut candidates have been shortlisted after completing the secondary selection phase.

Following initial screening in Pakistan, they underwent comprehensive medical, psychological, and aptitude assessments at China's Astronauts Centre (ACC) per international standards.

They will now begin six months of advanced training in China. Upon completion, one will be selected for a spaceflight mission aboard China's Tiangong (Chinese Space Station) in October/November 2026. This builds on the February 2025 bilateral agreement between SUPARCO and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), marking a major milestone in Pakistan's Human Spaceflight Programme.