Pakistan targets historic Moon mission in 2035, says Ahsan Iqbal
Meetings with NASA and US aerospace firms
Ahsan Iqbal held a series of high-level meetings with NASA officials and representatives of leading US aerospace companies to explore cooperation in space science, education, research, and technology.
The two sides discussed advancing Pakistan's long-term space vision, promoting scientific research and innovation, and creating opportunities for young Pakistanis to gain world-class education, training, and research exposure.
Iqbal said enhanced cooperation with NASA and the US aerospace industry could usher in a new era of science, research, and space education in Pakistan.
وفاقی وزیر منصوبہ بندی پروفیسر احسن اقبال کی ناسا اور امریکی ایرو اسپیس صنعت کے ساتھ پاکستان کے خلائی وژن اور نوجوانوں کے مستقبل پر اہم ملاقاتیں
— M/o Planning, Development and Special Initiatives (@PlanComPakistan) July 10, 2026
پاکستان علم، تحقیق اور جدت پر مبنی مستقبل کی جانب ایک اور اہم قدم بڑھا رہا ہے۔ وفاقی وزیر پروفیسر احسن اقبال نے اپنے دورۂ امریکہ کے… pic.twitter.com/mNLjNd61Gl
Space learning centre planned in Narowal
The minister said the proposed Space Exploration Centre in Narowal will serve as a hub for space education, research, and innovation, aiming to spark scientific curiosity among students.
He described the proposed Space Learning Centre as a national platform for promoting knowledge, research, and innovation rather than functioning merely as an educational facility.
Iqbal invited American aerospace companies to establish development centres in Pakistan to benefit from the country's young talent and skilled workforce.
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Long-term vision beyond 2035
Outlining Pakistan's long-term ambitions, Ahsan Iqbal said the country aimed to send a national mission to the Moon by 2035 and establish a sustained lunar presence by 2047.
He said the vision extended beyond space exploration and formed part of a broader national strategy to build a knowledge-based, research-driven, and innovation-led economy through global partnerships and advanced scientific research.
Pakistan's space agency, Suparco, has been formally tasked with leading the lunar mission. The country has previously worked closely with China on satellite launches and space cooperation, though this week's outreach marks an expanded push toward US partnerships as well.
