ISLAMABAD: Ahsan Iqbal, the Federal Minister for Planning and Development, announced the momentous occasion of the first Pakistani astronaut being launched into space next year 2026.
This is a giant step milestone moment for Pakistan’s space program that places Pakistan among the countries that are bravely confronting the challenges of space exploration.
Ahsan Iqbal, speaking at the launching ceremony of high-speed Internet and commercial satellite services in Islamabad, disclosed the news that Pakistan is reaching for the stars with its space program. The very first astronaut mission is scheduled for the upcoming year, hence 2026 will be a year of consequence for Pakistan in terms of technology and science.
“The progress of any civilization is mainly determined by its access to space technology,” Iqbal said. “Space technology is one of the main pillars of Pakistan’s development strategy. Within the last two years, Pakistan has launched four satellites to space successfully.”
Furthermore, Iqbal stated that Pakistan is now in a position to offer internet services via its satellites. “We are taking the first step of Pakistan’s tomorrow by merging fiber, 5G, and commercial satellite services, he said.”
In his address, Iqbal talked about the government’s project “e-Pakistan,” whose main purpose is the country’s youth to be linked with the global digital world. The minister assured the government connecting every school and health center to broadband Internet is its highest priority.
“E-Pakistan is more than a slogan; it is the core of a modern economy and governance system,” Iqbal said. “This digital economy will open the door to millions of new job opportunities for our youth.”
Minister also mentioned that the Internet is no longer just a tool for communication; it has become the main infrastructure for productivity. Steps are being taken to provide high-speed internet access to every citizen, even those living in remote areas. Satellite internet will be the main means of connecting the most remote areas of Pakistan.
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With these technological and space developments, Pakistan is on its way to a position where it can be a part of the global space race and the sending of its first astronaut will be a landmark achievement of 2026.
