“The universe is calling”: NASA is searching for astronauts... What are the conditions?

NASA is again looking for new astronauts. The US Space Agency announced that applications are open until December 3. However, applying for a job requires certain conditions to be met. Most importantly, the applicant must hold American citizenship, hold a master’s degree in one of the scientific disciplines (or a similar qualification), in addition to having professional experience of not less than three years or not less than 750 hours of flight training. You also need to pass a physical fitness test and demonstrate “strong leadership, teamwork and communication skills.” Whoever can overcome these obstacles and is ultimately chosen can look forward to participating in trips to the moon, or perhaps even to Mars.

NASA is seeking to attract new astronauts

In a motivational video clip published by NASA on the “X” platform under the slogan “The Universe is Calling,” a number of men and women appear in astronaut clothing talking about their experience as the agency seeks to attract new astronauts. “The people we choose may be able to walk on the surface of the moon, live and work on a lunar base, and help develop systems and processes that will one day be used to transport entire teams to Mars,” says NASA chief Jared Isaacman, as quoted by the German magazine Der Spiegel. He adds: “These missions require high technical proficiency, the ability to make sound judgments, a spirit of teamwork, and courage.”

NASA opened the door for applications in 2024. Out of 8,000 people who applied, the agency selected ten candidates who are currently undergoing a training program that will last for about two years.

The year 2016 witnessed the largest number of applications ever, exceeding 18 thousand applications. In general, throughout its history, NASA has selected about 370 astronauts, male and female, of whom about 30 are still currently carrying out their duties.