Pakistan minister targets Nov 25 for astronaut mission

Key takeaways

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal says Pakistan's first astronaut is expected to fly from China on November 25.

What happened

Pakistan's Planning Ministry and Radio Pakistan reported Iqbal's October 18 statement at a World Space Week event. Dawn also carried the announcement. The date is a ministerial target for a future mission, not confirmation that a launch has occurred; details such as the crew and final schedule require further official confirmation.

Why it matters

A crewed flight would be a significant step for Pakistan's space programme and its cooperation with China.

What to watch

Watch for mission details and a launch notice from the relevant space agencies. Spaceflight schedules can change.

Sources

• https://www.pc.gov.pk/web/press/get_all?view=list
• https://www.radio.gov.pk/18-10-2026/pakistans-first-astronaut-to-embark-on-space-mission-next-month-ahsan
• https://www.dawn.com/news/2038022/first-pakistani-astronaut-to-undertake-space-mission-from-china-on-nov-25-ahsan-iqbal