ASTANA, February 20. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan has begun preparations to develop its first national scientific satellite, a 6U‑format unit named “Mirzo Ulugbek”, which is expected to be launched into orbit in 2028, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing the international news agency “Kazinform”.

It is reported that an engineering team is currently being formed and specialized personnel are undergoing training to participate in the development and launch of the satellite. The project is set to become a significant milestone in the advancement of Uzbekistan’s national space program and the country’s scientific and technological potential.

In parallel with the satellite project, Uzbekistan is preparing its first national cosmonaut. The inaugural flight is planned to be short‑term, lasting between 10 and 14 days.

Among the priority scientific research areas for the mission are medicine and biology, including remote diagnostics and studies on the effectiveness of local medicinal extracts under microgravity conditions. Proposed experiments also cover plant genetics, such as testing drought- and salt-tolerant varieties and modeling closed-loop agro-biosystems. Special attention will be given to materials science, including testing new materials, fabrics and fibers for their capacity to store and dissipate heat in the space environment.

In addition, Uzbekistan is considering hosting the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Samarkand in 2028. Leading space organizations from the United States, Europe, China, India, Russia and other countries have already expressed interest in participating in the event.