NASA opens applications for new astronaut class with moon mission goals

U.S. citizens can now apply to join NASA’s next class of astronauts. The application window closes at midnight Eastern time on December 3. The position offers an annual salary of $164,395. Selected candidates must relocate to the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

The agency describes the role as an opportunity to live and work on the moon. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated that chosen individuals could walk on the lunar surface. He added that they would help pioneer systems for future missions to Mars. The agency notes there are few vacancies available for this recruitment cycle.

Applicants must meet strict educational and professional criteria. Four main profiles are accepted: a master's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics; two years of doctoral coursework in those fields; a medical degree; or completion of a test pilot school by July 2027. Candidates also need three years of professional experience after finishing their degree or training.

Specific flight hour requirements apply to pilots. High-performance jet pilots need 750 hours as lead pilot. Fixed-wing pilots require 1,500 total hours with 750 in command. Rotary-wing pilots need 1,000 total hours with 300 in command. Initial training and drone hours do not count toward these totals. Other tracks include flight test, medical, science, engineering, and operations. Operations candidates need three years of experience in high-consequence environments.

Physical and medical standards are part of the selection process. Applicants must pass medical and psychiatric exams, a background check, and drug screening. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 in each eye. Candidates must pass a swimming test. They must be able to perform moderate to arduous physical activities, including heavy lifting and working in bad weather.

NASA expects astronauts to work in dangerous and life-threatening situations. Candidates must accept living in remote or confined spaces for long periods. The agency requires applicants to be willing to deploy to space for 12 months or longer. This includes accepting extreme isolation and separation from loved ones. The recruitment follows an April mission where a crew of four flew around the moon, setting a record for the farthest distance humans have traveled from Earth.