China’s space station to become global research platform: China’s first astronaut
pekingpress.com Oct 9, 2026

China’s space station to become global research platform: China’s first astronaut

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

At the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, Yang Liwei, China’s first astronaut and deputy chief designer of the China Manned Space Agency, announced that the Chinese space station will serve as a global research platform. He highlighted plans for international cooperation in scientific research, astronaut training, flight opportunities, and science education. Yang noted that two Pakistani astronaut candidates have excelled in joint training and that the station will host its first foreign astronaut in the second half of the year, with a Pakistani payload specialist on a short‑duration mission. He also urged broader collaboration on China’s crewed lunar landing program and an international lunar research station.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · By opening its station to foreign crews, China expands access to space research and signals a shift toward a more collaborative international space environment.
  • · This move could accelerate joint scientific projects and broaden opportunities for countries with limited launch capabilities.