How To Become An Astronaut

NASA Astronauts
Behnken and Hurley Prepare to Suit Up

There are several steps you must complete before you can become an astronaut. The first step is to find an accredited university that has a NASA-approved astronaut training program. You will also need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or mathematics.
Next, you must pass the NASAAstronaut Physical Fitness Test.

This includes being able to do at least six pull-ups and three minutes of sit-ups. You must also be less than 225 pounds and have 20/20 vision in both eyes (or corrected to 20/20).
After you graduate from college, you must complete at least three years of work experience as a research engineer or scientist.

 

Here Are How To Become An Astronaut

 

Qualifications every NASA astronaut must-have

Astronaut Working Outside ISS
Astronaut Working Outside ISS

To become an astronaut for NASA, there are many qualifications that must be met. First, one must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, mathematics or another relevant field from an accredited institution. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, one must complete at least three years of related professional experience. Finally, astronauts must pass the NASA Astronaut Selection Panel Interview.

The astronaut selection process is extremely competitive. Out of the thousands of people who apply each year, only about eight to ten are selected to become astronauts.

So what does it take to be a successful astronaut candidate? First and foremost, you need passion and drive—the willingness to work hard and persevere through challenges is essential. You must also be in excellent physical condition; astronauts undergo rigorous health screenings to ensure they are fit for spaceflight.

 

Foreign Astronauts

Since the early days of spaceflight, NASA has relied on international cooperation to achieve its goals. Today, the agency continues this tradition by working with astronauts from other countries. If you want to become an astronaut and work with NASA, there are a few things you need to know.

First of all, you must be a citizen of one of the following countries: United States, Canada, Japan, Russia or member countries of the European Space Agency (ESA). You must also meet certain medical and physical requirements. And finally, you must have a college degree in engineering, science or math.

If you meet these requirements, there are a few ways to become an astronaut working with NASA. The most common way is to apply through the agency’s astronaut selection process. Every few years, NASA selects new astronauts from a pool of qualified candidates.

 

Astronaut Candidate Selection

Candidates for the astronaut program are selected from a large pool of qualified applicants. The selection process is rigorous and begins with a thorough application. Applicants must have a college degree in engineering, science, or mathematics and at least three years of related professional experience. They must also pass a physical examination, which includes vision and hearing tests, and be able to swim.

The first step in the selection process is an online application. The application asks for information about the applicant’s education, work experience, and other qualifications. It also includes questions about the applicant’s interest in space exploration and willingness to relocate to Houston, Texas, where NASA’s Johnson Space Center is located.

Applicants who meet the basic qualifications are then invited to take the NASA Astronaut Candidate Physical Exam. This exam includes vision and hearing tests, as well as a swimming test. and skills required for a formal mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

 

Source: | NASA