Pakistan’s Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has achieved yet another significant milestone in its human spaceflight programme with the successful completion of the secondary phase of astronaut candidates’ selection.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the second phase of astronaut selection has been successfully completed, following initial screening.

Two candidates have been shortlisted for further evaluation, the ISPR said.

The shortlisted candidates have completed comprehensive medical, psychological, and fitness assessments at the Astronaut Centre of China (ACC).

They are expected to undertake advanced astronaut training for six months at the facility in preparation for Pakistan’s upcoming space mission.

The ISPR stated that following the completion of training, one candidate will be selected for the space mission aboard the Chinese Space Station (CSS) in October / November 2026.

The selection comes under the bilateral ‘Astronaut Cooperation Agreement’ signed between Pakistan and China in February 2025.

The agreement, facilitated under the leadership of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, has played a pivotal role in enabling the country’s participation in human spaceflight.

This landmark initiative also reflects the strong support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, which selected Pakistan as the first foreign partner in its astronaut programme, the ISPR added.