NASA Opens Applications for New Astronaut Class Targeting Moon and Mars Missions
NASA is accepting applications until Dec. 3 for its next astronaut cohort, offering a salary of $164,395 and requiring U.S. citizenship, a STEM master’s degree and relevant experience.
NASA announced that it is accepting applications for a new class of astronauts who will support upcoming lunar and future Mars missions. The recruitment drive, posted on X, includes a video featuring current astronauts and the tagline “The Universe Is Calling.”
Applicants must be U.S. citizens with a master’s degree in a STEM discipline such as engineering, biological science, physical science or computer science, or have completed at least two years toward a doctoral program. Candidates also need a minimum of three years of related professional experience, five references, and must pass NASA’s long-duration astronaut flight physical. Leadership, teamwork and communication skills are emphasized, and candidates must be prepared for missions lasting 12 months or longer that involve extreme isolation.
The position offers an annual salary of $164,395, more than double the national average salary of $64,220. Selected astronauts will join the existing 32-member active corps and undergo two years of training that includes piloting T-38 jets, operating robotic arms, performing spacewalks and learning space-station operations.
“The window is open. The mission is waiting. And the only thing missing from the greatest adventure humanity has ever embarked upon is you,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson.
“For those who apply, becoming a NASA astronaut is more than a career opportunity. It is a chance to join a legacy of explorers who have pushed the boundaries of discovery and play a role in the missions that will shape humanity’s future in space,” said Scott Tingle, chief astronaut and chair of the Astronaut Selection Board at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Applications close at 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3. After an initial review, about half of the applicants will be invited to Houston’s Johnson Space Center for first-round interviews, with a second screening for selected candidates. The final cohort will be announced after the interview process.