How To Become A NASA Astronaut

What does it take to become a NASA astronaut? Well, for starters, guts. The title of “astronaut” does not come easy, and is used to describe those selected to join the NASA corps as “space sailors.” Though the job sounds super awesome, the responsibilities that come along with the position are substantial. Not every one can become a NASA astronaut. Can you?

HOW TO BECOME A NASA ASTRONAUT:

First and foremost, applicants for the Astronaut Candidate Program must be United States citizens.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE:
1. Commander and Pilot Astronaut
Pilot astronauts are essentially responsible for controlling and operating the space vehicle. As such, they monitor the safety of the flight, keeping a close watch on the spacecraft and the crew within it. The pilot and commander might also help in payload activities.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
Basic requirements are as follows:

  1. Although an advanced degree is preferred, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (in biological science, engineering, mathematics, or physical science) is the minimum requirement.
  2. A minimum of 1,000 hours as pilot-in-command in a jet aircraft. Flight test experience is also preferred.
  3. A NASA astronaut space physical must be passed:
  • Visual acuity: 20/100 or better uncorrected, correctable to 20/20.
  • Blood pressure: 140/90 measured in a sitting position.
  • Height: 62 – 75 inches.

Laos stamp - Clapway

2. Mission Specialists
Mission specialist astronauts are responsible for overseeing the operations/objectives of space missions in the areas of crew activity planning consumables usages, and payload operations, among other things. Mission specialists are trained in the details of each operation and frequently perform extravehicular activities (EVAS), or space walks, to ensure everything in operating correctly.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
Basic requirements for Mission Specialists are as follows:

  1. Although an advanced degree is preferred, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (in biological science, engineering, mathematics, or physical science) is the minimum requirement.
  2. At least three years of related professional experience, although an advanced degree can be substituted. A master’s degree is equivalent to 1 year of experience, while a doctoral degree is equivalent to 3 years.
  3. A NASA astronaut space physical must be passed:
  • Visual acuity: 20/200 or better uncorrected, correctable to 20/20.
  • Blood pressure: 140/90 measured in a sitting position.
  • Height: 58.5 – 76 inches.

Astronaut - Clapway

3. Payload Specialists
Payload specialists have specialized duties during a mission, and usually take part in an operation with unique requirements. Preference for the position is usually give to NASA mission specialists; payload specialists are also nominated by NASA, a foreign sponsor, or the designated payload sponsor.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
Payload specialists are not part of the Astronaut Candidate program, but must have an appropriate level of experience, training and education. Depending on the specific mission, physical requirements will vary, but applicants must pass a NASA space physical.

Information courtesy of NASA.gov. For more information, click here.


 

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