NASA is looking for astronauts after 4 years. Are you ready? Check qualifications and selection process
economictimes.indiatimes.comNASA has opened applications for astronauts for the first time in four years, seeking candidates with diverse backgrounds. Thousands of applicants vie for a spot in the rigorous Astronaut Candidate training program. Only a select few are chosen for this intensive program. This recruitment drive comes after over 12,000 people applied to be astronauts in 2020, resulting in the selection of 10 astronaut candidates in December 2021, who are now eligible for flight. NASA has selected 360 astronaut candidates to date for its missions exploring space.
Qualifications required to be a NASA astronaut
Among the qualifications required are U.S. citizenship, a master’s degree in a STEM field, and a minimum of three years of related professional experience, or 1,000 Pilot-in-Command hours for pilots, with a significant portion in high-performance jet aircraft.
For medical doctors, residency time can count toward experience, provided it is completed by June 2025. Successful completion of the NASA long-duration flight astronaut physical is also mandatory.
The master’s degree requirement can be met through various pathways, including two years of doctoral program work in a related field, completion of a medical degree, or graduation from a nationally recognized test pilot school program. Additionally, candidates must possess leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
NASA astronaut selection process
NASA's Astronaut Selection Board evaluates applicants and conducts
