Afghanistan’s First Astronaut Abdul Ahad Momand Laid to Rest in Kabul

The body of Abdul Ahad Momand, Afghanistan’s first esteemed astronaut who passed away two weeks ago in Germany, has been returned to Kabul to be laid to rest in his homeland.

Official Reception and Tributes

Mr. Momand’s remains were transported from Germany to Kabul on Monday, July 15, after years of living abroad. He passed away at the age of 67 on May 31 in Stuttgart, Germany, due to an illness. The transfer was coordinated through diplomatic channels to ensure his burial could take place in Afghanistan.

Scientific and Spiritual Legacy of Afghanistan’s First Astronaut

Abdul Ahad Momand, originally from the ancient province of Ghazni, is recognized as the first and only citizen of Afghanistan to travel to space, which he did in 1988, spending nine days at the famous Mir Space Station. This remarkable achievement etched Afghanistan’s name among the few countries to have accomplished such a feat. A notable spiritual aspect of this journey was that he took a copy of the Holy Quran with him into space and recited verses from it in Earth’s orbit.

Forced Migration and Eternal Rest in Kabul

The renowned scientist was compelled to leave his homeland due to the rampant civil wars and insecurity that plagued the country in past decades, ultimately seeking refuge in Germany. Throughout the years, he lived there with his wife and three children, while always cherishing his love for Afghanistan. According to arrangements made by relevant authorities and his family, Mr. Momand’s remains will be interred in the historic Meranjan Hill Cemetery in east Kabul after religious rites, allowing him to find eternal peace in the embrace of his motherland.