Honoring a Hero: Afghanistan’s First Astronaut Abdul Ahad Momand Repatriated for Final Rest

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The remains of Abdul Ahad Momand, the nation’s first celebrated astronaut who passed away in Germany two weeks ago, have been transported to Kabul amidst a warm welcome from officials and citizens to lay him to rest in his homeland.

The Transfer and Reception of the Renowned Scientist

Abdul Ahad Momand’s body was returned to Afghanistan on Monday, July 5, after years of living abroad. He died on June 21 in Stuttgart, Germany, at the age of 67 due to illness. The repatriation of this distinguished scientific figure was coordinated with diplomatic arrangements to ensure his burial takes place within the country.

A Commendable Tribute with Formal Honors

According to images and videos shared on social media, a grand ceremony was held at Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport to welcome his remains. The reception included a military honor guard along with several high-ranking government officials, prominent figures, relatives, and numerous admirers, all gathered to pay their respects to this iconic national and scientific figure.

The Lasting Legacy of Afghanistan’s First Astronaut

Abdul Ahad Momand, originally from the historic province of Ghazni, is recognized as the first and only Afghan citizen to journey into space; he accomplished this remarkable feat in 1988, spending nine days aboard the renowned Mir space station. This significant achievement placed Afghanistan among a select group of countries to hold such an honor. Additionally, during this journey, he made history as the first astronaut in the Islamic world to take a copy of the Quran into space, reciting its verses in Earth’s orbit.

An Unfortunate Exile and a Final Resting Place in Kabul

This renowned scientist was compelled to leave his homeland due to the internal conflicts and instability that ravaged Afghanistan in previous decades, eventually settling in Germany. Alongside his wife and three children, he lived in exile for many years, yet he always carried a deep love for his homeland. Arrangements made by relevant authorities and family members indicate that his remains will be buried after religious rites in the historic Meranjan Hill cemetery in eastern Kabul, allowing him to rest forever in the embrace of his beloved homeland. For further insights on Afghanistan’s current political landscape, you can read about how Taliban Officials Express Discontent Over Tehran’s Recognition of Opposition Leaders or learn about other pressing issues affecting the nation.
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