Uzbekistan sets sights on space with first astronaut plan and satellite push

Uzbekistan has outlined plans to select its first astronaut and launch two Earth observation satellites, as it steps up efforts to build a national space programme and strengthen its scientific and technological capacity.

The plans were presented by the national space agency, Uzbekcosmos, during a roundtable in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, outlining a long-term strategy to strengthen the country’s technological and scientific capabilities.

First astronaut selection

Uzbekistan is preparing to hold a nationwide competition to select its first astronaut, marking a significant milestone in its space ambitions.

According to Uzbekcosmos, candidates aged between 27 and 40 will be eligible to apply, provided they meet strict requirements related to education, physical condition and psychological resilience. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in foreign languages, including English and Russian or Chinese, depending on the chosen international partner.

The selection process will include medical examinations, psychological and psychophysical testing, as well as assessments of intellectual and physical abilities. Shortlisted candidates will undergo further evaluation abroad, with three or four finalists expected to reach the final stage.

The selected astronaut will complete 10 to 12 months of training at international facilities before undertaking a mission expected to last 10 to 14 days. The mission will focus on scientific research in areas such as medicine, biology, plant genetics and materials science.

International cooperation

Uzbekistan is considering cooperation with countries that have human spaceflight capabilities, including the U.S., Russia and China. Uzbekcosmos said these are the countries currently operating active programmes capable of sending astronauts into orbit.

A government commission has been established to oversee the initiative, including selecting partners, securing funding and developing a scientific programme. Officials expect the research agenda to be finalised within one or two years.

The project follows a statement by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in December 2025 announcing plans to send Uzbekistan’s first astronaut into space.

Satellite programme

Alongside its human spaceflight ambitions, Uzbekistan is also planning to launch two high-resolution Earth observation satellites within the next three to four years.

The satellites are expected to support a range of sectors, including agriculture, environmental monitoring and urban planning, by providing detailed imaging and data analysis capabilities.

Officials noted that, while two satellites will not fully meet domestic demand, the project represents a key first step towards building national space infrastructure.

Uzbekistan has already contacted around 20 companies in 15 countries, receiving proposals from 13 companies in 11 countries. Potential partners include firms from the U.S., Europe and Asia.

Building national capacity

Authorities emphasised that the satellite programme will prioritise the involvement of Uzbek specialists at all stages, including design, assembly and testing, to strengthen local expertise and reduce reliance on foreign technologies.

The final decision on partners and implementation will be made at government level, taking into account both economic and strategic considerations, including technological sovereignty.

Officials say the combined initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s ambition to establish itself as an emerging player in the global space sector, with investments in both human spaceflight and satellite technologies forming the foundation of a broader long-term strategy.

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Uzbekistan Space Earth Satellites United States Russia China Shavkat Mirziyoyev astronauts