Sage-Tips

How can I increase my chances of becoming an astronaut?

There are two paths to becoming an astronaut:

1. Become an US military pilot, and the best and safest pilot you can be.
2. Get a PhD in a subject that will be necessary in which to perform research in space, or to assist in building a new space station, or a space colony.

How do I write a motivation letter for an astronaut?

Your motivation letter should be clear and concise and it should detail any experience which could be relevant to the role of an astronaut. We usually recommend any applicant to ESA to keep this letter to just one page (maximum two). This also applies to the astronaut vacancies.

What skills does NASA look for?

NASA considers having a strong EQ and great teamwork abilities just as essential as technical expertise and so-called leadership skills. That’s why the Astronaut Selection Board looks for candidates who demonstrate good “expeditionary skills” in their previous experience.

What disqualifies an astronaut?

Being too tall or too short. “The last time it recruited a new batch of astronauts, in 2003, the minimum height was 4 feet, 10½; the maximum was 6 feet, 4 inches. “It would be the wrong thing to do to select people who aren’t going to fit in your spaceship,” says Duane Ross, NASA’s head of astronaut selection.

How do I write to an astronaut at NASA?

Write a friendly letter to an astronaut. A list of career astronauts can be found at: www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/astrobio.html. This link will also provide you with information about former astronauts, international astronauts and cosmonauts. *Be sure to include a return address.

How smart do you have to be an astronaut?

Instead, they’re experts in math and science who meet all of NASA’s qualifications. Aspiring 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.

Does NASA reply to letters?

Write a Letter They can include things they’ve learned at school and a question they’d like answered by the NASA employee. NASA responds to autographed photo requests for active astronauts (those assigned to upcoming flights or who are currently in training).