what course to study to become an astronaut

by Immanuel Hessel 9 min read

Educational Requirements
Both civilian and military personnel can apply to become what NASA calls astronaut candidates. All astronaut candidates must be U.S. citizens and must have bachelor's degrees from accredited institutions in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics.

What qualifications do you need to become an astronaut?

  • Be a U.S. ...
  • Possess a master's degree* in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics, from an accredited institution.
  • Have at least two years of related professional experience obtained after degree completion or at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time on jet aircraft.

More items...

What are the physical requirements for an astronaut?

What are the physical requirements to be an astronaut? Physical fitness is key Astronauts must also stand between 62 and 75 inches in height, which is between 5’2” and 6’3”. There’s also a swimming test. View Details Seniorcare2share.com . Swimming View More

What is the average salary of an astronaut?

The middle pay grades for astronauts are G-12 and G-13; each grade is divided into 10 steps, which depend on seniority and/or performance. The middle pay for a G-12 employee is $75,741 to $77,969, and the middle pay for a G-13 employee is $90,064 to $92,713. That means the average astronaut’s pay is $84,121.

How much money does a NASA astronaut make?

What Are the Yearly Wages of a NASA Astronaut?

  • Civilian Salaries. According to NASA, civilian astronauts are awarded a pay grade of anywhere from GS-11 to GS-14, so the income range is relatively wide.
  • Military Salaries. Many astronauts, however, come from the military, and like anyone in the armed forces, they’re awarded a pay grade based on active duty status.
  • Benefits. ...
  • Job Outlook. ...

What are the qualifications to become an astronaut?

Today, to be considered for an astronaut position, applicants must meet the following qualifications: Be a U.S. citizen. Possess a master's degree* in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics, from an accredited institution.

What skills do astronauts need?

Astronaut candidates must also have skills in leadership, teamwork and communications.

What spacecraft did the Artemis Generation launch?

They may also launch aboard the Orion spacecraft on the Space Launch System rocket and dock the spacecraft at the Gateway in lunar orbit before taking a new human landing system to the Moon’s surface.

How many years of experience do you need to be a pilot in a jet?

Have at least two years of related professional experience obtained after degree completion or at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time on jet aircraft.

When were the first astronauts selected?

The military selected the first astronauts in 1959. The first astronauts were military personnel who had experience flying jet aircraft and backgrounds in engineering. They also had to be shorter than 5 feet 11 inches—to fit in the Mercury spacecraft.

Where do astronauts work?

NASA’s astronauts currently work as scientists on the International Space Station —a laboratory that orbits Earth approximately 240 miles above the planet’s surface. Astronauts on the station conduct scientific experiments such as innovative cancer research and research on the human body and living in space.

How many applications did NASA receive in 2016?

NASA’s Astronaut Selection Board reviews the applications (a record-breaking 18,300 applications in 2016) and assesses each candidate’s qualifications. The board then invites a small group of the most highly qualified candidates for interviews at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Of those interviewed, about half are invited back for second interviews. From that group, NASA’s new astronaut candidates are selected. They report for training at Johnson and spend the next two years learning basic astronaut skills like spacewalking, operating the space station, flying T-38 jet planes and controlling a robotic arm.

What is astronaut training?

Astronaut training is part of the path to becoming an astronaut as it prepares inspiring astronauts for their physical and mental tests. Astronauts in training are referred to as “AsCans,” which is an abbreviation for astronaut candidates.

How many years of work do you need to be an astronaut?

Astronauts must have a master’s degree, along with at least two years of relevant work experience. Or, they can complete 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time.

How Much Does an Astronaut Make?

The Federal Government’s General Schedule dictates the salary for astronauts for grades GS-12 to GS-13. GS-12’s salary starts at $65,140 whereas a GS-13 can earn up to $100,701 annually.

What do astronauts do outside of space?

Outside of the spacecraft, astronauts perform tasks to ensure that space stations continue to run smoothly. They’ll repair anything that may be broken, check equipment, and clean.

What is the job of an astronaut?

There is a commander who makes important decisions and is ultimately in charge of the crew. The pilot works with the commander. Along with the commander and pilot, other astronauts fulfill specific duties based on their respective skills and specialities.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree?

All in all, it takes about a decade to do so. Here’s how that breaks down: It takes about four years to earn a bachelor’s degree, two more years to earn a master’s degree, two years for professional experience, and a final two years for mandatory basic training.

How many laps in a pool while wearing a flight suit?

Passing of physical tests (including a scuba certification and swim three laps in a pool while wearing a flight suit)

What are the qualifications to become an astronaut?

Today, to be considered for an astronaut position, applicants must meet the following qualifications: Be a U.S. citizen. Possess a master's degree* in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics, from an accredited institution.

How many years of experience do you need to be a NASA astronaut?

Have at least two years of related professional experience obtained after degree completion or at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time on jet aircraft. Be able to pass the NASA long-duration flight astronaut physical.

What spacecraft did the Artemis Generation launch?

They may also launch aboard the Orion spacecraft on the Space Launch System rocket and dock the spacecraft at the Gateway in lunar orbit before taking a new human landing system to the Moon’s surface.

What skills do astronauts need?

Astronaut candidates must also have skills in leadership, teamwork and communications.

When were the first astronauts selected?

The military selected the first astronauts in 1959. The first astronauts were military personnel who had experience flying jet aircraft and backgrounds in engineering. They also had to be shorter than 5 feet 11 inches—to fit in the Mercury spacecraft.

Where do astronauts work?

NASA’s astronauts currently work as scientists on the International Space Station —a laboratory that orbits Earth approximately 240 miles above the planet’s surface. Astronauts on the station conduct scientific experiments such as innovative cancer research and research on the human body and living in space.

How many applications did NASA receive in 2016?

NASA’s Astronaut Selection Board reviews the applications (a record-breaking 18,300 applications in 2016) and assesses each candidate’s qualifications. The board then invites a small group of the most highly qualified candidates for interviews at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Of those interviewed, about half are invited back for second interviews. From that group, NASA’s new astronaut candidates are selected. They report for training at Johnson and spend the next two years learning basic astronaut skills like spacewalking, operating the space station, flying T-38 jet planes and controlling a robotic arm.

What degree do you need to be an astronaut?

Not every STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) degree will qualify you to be an astronaut. NASA is looking for people with a degree in engineering, biological science, physical science (like physics, chemistry or geology), computer science or mathematics.

When will NASA accept applications for astronauts?

Image credit: NASA. Update: Feb. 11, 2020 – NASA will be accepting applications for its next class of astronauts from March 2 to 31, 2020. › Read the full press release. Originally published Nov. 4, 2015:

When will the test pilot school be completed?

Completion (by June 2021) of a nationally recognized test pilot school program.

How many years of work toward a Ph.D. in a related science, technology, engineering or math field?

Master's degree in a STEM field, or. Two years of work toward a Ph.D. program in a related science, technology, engineering or math field; A completed doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine degree; Completion (by June 2021) of a nationally recognized test pilot school program.

What do you need to know to become an astronaut?

Ans. After 12th, you are required to get the educational qualification in the STEM field as it is the basic requirement to make a career as an astronaut. Apart from that, you can take classes in scuba diving, swimming and so forth as it will be an added value for being an astronaut.

What subjects do astronauts need to study?

Choose the Correct Subjects: The first step to becoming an astronaut is to choose the correct subjects in the 10+2 examination as Science is the compulsory subject that should be pursued if you want to make your career an astronaut. Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are the best subject combinations that you should choose after passing a 10th-grade examination.

How much does an astronaut make?

Generally, an astronaut will get a salary between INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000 per month.

What does the Space Agency offer employees?

Life & Family: Once the candidate has been selected for the astronaut position, the space agency offers security to their employees at work and at home. Flexible working hours, telecommuting options, paid holidays and a generous leave program are being offered to employees.

What is the first step to becoming an astronaut?

The first step to becoming an astronaut is to choose the correct subjects in the 10+2 examination as Science is the compulsory subject that should be pursued if you want to make your career an astronaut.

Why is being an astronaut important?

Being an astronaut is one of the most competitive and toughest tasks because it requires fulfilling a lot of criteria to make a career in the space industry. If you are an adventurous person and love to take on challenges then this profession is perfect for you.

How long does it take to become an astronaut?

Passing a medical test is a part of training and basic training most probably takes two years to complete.

Where do you go to train to be an astronaut?

As an Astronaut-in-training you will head to Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. There you will complete the knowledge and skills needed for formal mission training. You will need to prove proficiency through testing and evaluations. Some of the required exercises are as follows:

What degree do you need to become an astronaut pilot?

An aspiring Astronaut pilot must apply for the Astronaut Candidate Program, and meet the following requirements: 1. U.S. citizen. 2. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in either engineering, physical science, biology or mathematics. However, an advanced degree is highly recommended. 3.

How much does an astronaut make?

Those at the top of the pay scale (many years of experience) can expects over $140k annually . Astronauts with a military background are paid through a different pay scale as well as have a different benefits package.

What are the requirements to pass the NASA space physical?

This may sound weird but included in the physical requirements are having 20/100 or better vision, having 140/90 blood pressure and being of a height between 62 and 75 inches. There are no age restrictions.

How long does it take to become an astronaut?

Training Program. After all that, a candidate must go through a two year training program to earn the title of Astronaut. Training will include 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in a jet aircraft to meet the qualifications of the occupation.

Can you be an astronaut?

Yes, the word Astronaut, from the Greek, translates to Space Sailor. But before you sail your spaceship through the sea of space, you will need to know how to get your sea legs. Of course you can be an astronaut, you think. Dogs, monkeys, and Homer Simpson have all been to space. But in reality, becoming an Astronaut is no easy task.

Can you sail through space?

Yes, the word Astronaut, from the Greek, translates to Space Sailor. But before you sail your spaceship through the sea of space, you will need to know how to get your sea legs.

What type of education do you need to become an astronaut?

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in addition to a degree in a relevant MINT field such as engineering, biology, natural philosophy, technology, or mathematics. They must have studied medicine or completed an aircraft pilot training program.

What training do astronauts need?

They must first obtain a scuba diving license and then swim three laps in a pool while wearing a flight suit. They must also go through military survival training on land and sea, which is essential in an emergency.

What does an astronaut do?

Unlike Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story, Astronauts do not fly through space yelling, “Into Infinity and Beyond!” They, like everyone else, require real-world tasks.

How to Become an Astronaut?

Instead, they are math and science graduates who meet all NASA requirements.

How difficult is it to become an astronaut?

Every four years, NASA hires new astronauts, and a large number of people apply. NASA chose eight astronauts from a pool of 6,000 applicants in 2013. And, despite the fact that 18,300 people applied for the 2017 category, only 12 were accepted, representing a 1% acceptance rate.

How long do astronauts have to go to the military?

Astronauts must complete two years of mandatory military training in addition to six years of education and two years of professional experience. This all adds up to decades of planning. After that, astronauts may be required to attend for months or years before their first space mission. Astronauts must complete extensive mission training before leaving Earth to prepare them for space exploration better.

How many astronauts does NASA have?

When it comes to astronauts, NASA doesn’t have a large workforce. NASA currently employs 48 active astronauts, and less than 600 people have flown into space in the last 50 years. But if you have a dream and determination, you may be able to join the ranks of these true adventurers.

1. Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is one of the most relevant college majors for astronauts. It’s a challenging program, but it equips you with so many of the skills needed for your career goals. Over the course of your electrical engineering degree, you’ll learn how to design, develop, and maintain electrical equipment.

2. Mechanical Engineering

Just like electrical engineering, a mechanical engineering degree provides a wealth of information that can benefit you as an aspiring astronaut. While electrical engineers are experts on the electronic and technological aspects of engineering, mechanical engineers focus on the physical components of complex systems.

3. Biology

Biology is one of the most popular undergraduate science majors because it provides such a valuable foundation for graduate studies. Many of the other science majors focus on the study of the earth or matter, but biology is the study of life.

4. Physics

Physics is a broad field, but it involves the study of matter and energy. Physicists aim to understand how the world is structured and how everything moves around in time and space. Astronauts need an extensive understanding of these ideas to prepare for and complete space missions, so physicists are valuable members of NASA’s team.

5. Atmospheric Science

Atmospheric science is the study of the atmosphere, weather, climate, and other environmental topics. This degree can lead you to a number of important career paths, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 30 percent of atmospheric scientists work for the federal government.

6. Astronomy

Astronomy is an ideal undergraduate major for students who are fascinated by space. Even if you do not go on to become an astronaut, there are many interesting and lucrative career paths for astronomers.

7. Mathematics

Most of the degree programs for astronauts heavily involve mathematics. If math is your passion, you can select it as your undergraduate major. While a bachelor’s in mathematics isn’t enough on its own to become an astronaut, it does prepare you for a graduate degree in physics, astronomy, or another related subject.

What degree do you need to be an astronaut?

Today, to be considered for an astronaut position, candidate must meet the following qualifications: A bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics. At least three years of related profess. Continue Reading.

How long does it take to become an astronaut?

The main thing is that to become astronaut Nasa gives a five years complete training so you should first be selected in Nasa or any other company’s astronaut candidate batch like one announced in july 2017.

What are the fields of study for NASA astronauts?

Answering for NASA astronauts. You have a lot of choices for fields of study. Most sciences, engineering and math curricula are appropriate and acceptable.

How to get into space?

Make your field relevant to going into space. Spend 10 years in your field. Apply to make our field the one they want to spend all the money on. Go into space. As you can see - you don't become an astronaut first. You do something useful, and then become an astronaut.

What are the roles of an astronaut?

1: To drive the shuttle 2: To just go into space for conducting various experiments and do certain technical works. First decide what you want to do.

What is the only hard and fast educational requirement?

Any hard science or engineering. The only hard and fast educational requirement is a B.S. in a hard science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc.) or Engineering (Any discipline, though Aerospace, Mechanical or Electrical are the most typical).

How many hours of pilot in command?

2. At least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft. Flight test experience is highly desirable.

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