7 answers
Raelyn
Student
Hatboro, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
1117 views
What is the best way to become an Astronaut?
I've wanted to be an Astronaut for a while and I thought a degree in astronomy would be a good start but I don't know.
Login to comment
7 answers
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Fred gave excellent advice: look to see what those who have gone before have done. I would like to build on that with two book recommendations: You will enjoy reading "We Seven", the book of the original seven astronauts, how they were picked, and the training they endured. Another book to read is "Failure is Not An Option", following the flight director's story of the Gemini and Apollo missions. Generally, these are engineers, as being an astronaut is heavily involved with the technology of reaching outer space, not viewing outer space. I wish you the best in your pursuits.
The degree I'm going for is a astronomy degree with integrated physics, would you recommend taking a minor in physics by itself (or in another field)? Also in going to a british university, and hoping to become an astronaut with ESA
Raelyn
CARLA THOMAS
SENIOR NETWORK TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT
11
Answers
Conyers, Georgia
Updated
CARLA’s Answer
A good initial start would be to explore the world of Astrology and the plight of Astronauts by viewing webinars and you tube video's on the subject. Sign up for an introductory course via Coursera or another online training site.
Vern Novstrup
Environmental Engineer
30
Answers
Ventura, California
Updated
Vern’s Answer
NASA says, "NASA is looking for people with a degree in engineering, biological science, physical science (like physics, chemistry or geology), computer science or mathematics."
Historically, astronauts have had military experience as pilots in part because of the great personal risk that was involved in flying in space. Today, NASA is looking much more to the scientific community for the right stuff.
I also found a somewhat surprising minimum GPA requirement of only 3.0. From my perspective this suggests that NASA is looking for someone who is a honest humble smart hardworking inquisitive student.
Perhaps, the best approach would be to pick a scientific discipline that you lov, get an advanced degree, and focus on becoming a highly respected professional in that career path. Then use that skillset to apply for a job with NASA or one that aligns closely with core functions of NASA.
Note: I said, “apply for a job with NASA.” This is because every job at NASA makes you a member of a team involved in the greatest scientific enterprise ever undertaken by humankind. That perspective can be better understood following story.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy visited NASA for the first time. During his tour of the facility, he met a janitor who was carrying a broom down the hallway. The President then casually asked the janitor what he did for NASA, and the janitor replied, “I’m helping put a man on the moon.”
The janitor should take as much pride in their profession, as the astronaut. Both are necessary to success of the enterprise.
Historically, astronauts have had military experience as pilots in part because of the great personal risk that was involved in flying in space. Today, NASA is looking much more to the scientific community for the right stuff.
I also found a somewhat surprising minimum GPA requirement of only 3.0. From my perspective this suggests that NASA is looking for someone who is a honest humble smart hardworking inquisitive student.
Perhaps, the best approach would be to pick a scientific discipline that you lov, get an advanced degree, and focus on becoming a highly respected professional in that career path. Then use that skillset to apply for a job with NASA or one that aligns closely with core functions of NASA.
Note: I said, “apply for a job with NASA.” This is because every job at NASA makes you a member of a team involved in the greatest scientific enterprise ever undertaken by humankind. That perspective can be better understood following story.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy visited NASA for the first time. During his tour of the facility, he met a janitor who was carrying a broom down the hallway. The President then casually asked the janitor what he did for NASA, and the janitor replied, “I’m helping put a man on the moon.”
The janitor should take as much pride in their profession, as the astronaut. Both are necessary to success of the enterprise.
Kelly Cody
recruiter
6
Answers
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Learn from an astronaut or someone in the field. This will get you the real life understanding and experience. Try networking with people in the field.
Alex Belot
Project Manager
26
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Alex’s Answer
The folks from NASA chooses to become astronauts aren't necessarily those who have dedicated their lives to becoming space explorers. Instead, they're experts in math and science who meet all of NASA's qualifications, and there are a few of them.
Those who choose to become astronauts must have a master's degree in addition to at least two years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, they may complete at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time on a jet aircraft. Quiet often, candidates who become astronauts at some point used to be a pilot either in the private sector or in the military, more often than not.
Lastly, you must be in good physical and mental health, this is crucial.
Good luck to you!
Those who choose to become astronauts must have a master's degree in addition to at least two years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, they may complete at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time on a jet aircraft. Quiet often, candidates who become astronauts at some point used to be a pilot either in the private sector or in the military, more often than not.
Lastly, you must be in good physical and mental health, this is crucial.
Good luck to you!
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
392
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
I believe astronauts are generally scientists, but not necessarily astronomers. Since they generally are doing experiments in space, I believe things like chemistry, biology, or engineering may be a valid discipline as well.
You may want to check out NASA's website and look over the current astronaut's biographies, and see what kind of education they have. While this is not a guaranteed way to become an astronaut (nothing is), it may help you plan your roadmap.
You may want to check out NASA's website and look over the current astronaut's biographies, and see what kind of education they have. While this is not a guaranteed way to become an astronaut (nothing is), it may help you plan your roadmap.
Natalie
Student
Miami, Florida
0
Questions
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Raelyn,
Usually astronauts tend to be engineers with a lot of training. Although astronomy is definitely a great option, fields like physics and math are more common for people who work in projects related to space. From the people designing to actual astronauts, a degree in engineering with a minor in physics could be a good idea. Mechanical engineering would allow you to explore more than the other engineering fields. Astronauts are interdisciplinary and have a lot of experience - in many fields. Engineering + physics is probably your best bet. It’s generally implied that an engineer is good at math so a minor in math would be unnecessary. You’d mostly learn about math theory.
Usually astronauts tend to be engineers with a lot of training. Although astronomy is definitely a great option, fields like physics and math are more common for people who work in projects related to space. From the people designing to actual astronauts, a degree in engineering with a minor in physics could be a good idea. Mechanical engineering would allow you to explore more than the other engineering fields. Astronauts are interdisciplinary and have a lot of experience - in many fields. Engineering + physics is probably your best bet. It’s generally implied that an engineer is good at math so a minor in math would be unnecessary. You’d mostly learn about math theory.