Uzbekistan plans first national astronaut mission by 2028

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan plans to send its first national astronaut into space before October 2028, according to Mukhiddin Ibragimov, Deputy Director of the Uzbekcosmos Agency.

He said a 10–14 day crewed spaceflight program is being considered, with the astronaut expected to return in time for the International Astronautical Congress to be held in Samarkand. The initiative was presented during a briefing to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Officials at the agency said the project is not only symbolic but also aimed at developing the country’s scientific capacity, increasing youth interest in science, and strengthening Uzbekistan’s international image. Cooperation with leading space agencies is also being considered.

Special attention is being given to the scientific component of the planned mission. Potential research areas include medical and biological experiments, including remote diagnostics and studies on the effectiveness of plant extracts, genetic research on plants, and testing materials for thermal regulation and textile technologies.

In parallel, Uzbekistan is working on initiatives to develop its first scientific satellite. The project is seen as a step toward building national scientific and technological capacity in the space sector and developing domestic infrastructure.

According to Uzbekcosmos, work is underway across several directions, including international cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States, where a joint satellite launch involving Uzbek specialists is planned for 2026.

The agency also reported progress in personnel training through cooperation with Kyushu Institute of Technology in Japan, where Uzbek master’s students are being trained in satellite development and launch systems. These specialists are expected to form the foundation of future national space projects.