NASA is looking for recruits to apply and go through training to become an astronaut. In a video accompaniment to the official NASA press release, former astronaut and current NASA administrator Charles Bolden said "You see, NASAs on a journey to Mars. And we're on the look out for a new generation of space pioneers". Much of the world - at least above water - has been explored so we turn now again towards the skies for exploration to learn more about the solar system we call home.
The press statement went on to say "The space agency is guiding an unprecedented transition to commercial spacecraft for crew and cargo transport to the space station. Flights in Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner and SpaceX Crew Dragon will facilitate adding a seventh crew member to each station mission". The goal of this is to be able to effectively double the amount of time astronauts are able to be in space.
To be qualified to apply to the astronaut program you must
- Have earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics (advanced degrees are desirable)
- Have at least three years of related professional experience or at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft.
- Must pass the NASA long-duration spaceflight physical.
If you are ready to live by the Astronaut Code of Professional Responsibility, have a sense of adventure, and are qualified under the above requirements, this might be the job for you.
Want more information about the astronaut selection process? Go to NASA's website
