Job DescriptionAstronauts conduct experiments and gather information while in space flight, including on the International Space Station. They also conduct experiments with the spacecraft itself to develop new concepts in design, engineering, and the navigation of a vehicle outside the Earth's atmosphere.
Requirements
Links to Check OutVertical Divider
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Contact TBDIf you are or know of an astronaut willing to sit for an interview with us, please let us know at
[email protected] Fun Fact!Only about 560 astronauts have been selected from many thousands of candidates worldwide
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Myth |
Truth |
All astronauts have piloting experience |
You don't need to be a pilot to be an astronaut. Flying experience is not a requirement, but it could be beneficial to have |
All astronauts have perfect vision |
It's okay if you don't have 20/20 vision. As of September 2007, corrective surgical procedures of the eye (PRK and LASIK), are allowed, provided at least 1 year has passed since the date of the procedure with no permanent adverse after effects |
All astronauts have advanced degrees like, a PhD |
While a Master's degree from an accredited university is necessary, the requirement can also be met with the completion of a nationally recognized test pilot school program. |
Astronauts are required to have military experience in order to be selected |
Military experience is not required to become an astronaut |
You have to be a certain age in order to be an astronaut |
There are no age restrictions. Astronaut candidates selected in the past have ranged between the ages of 26 and 46, with the average age being 34. |