NASA seeks new astronauts for future lunar missions

The application portal indicates a limited number of positions are available, with an annual salary of $164,395 and a requirement to relocate to Houston, Texas, to work at the Johnson Space Center.

While open to all citizens, candidates must fulfill specific educational and professional criteria. The selection process is highly competitive.

The agency’s Artemis II mission, which orbited the moon in April, marked the furthest distance humans have ever traveled from Earth. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated, “The people we select could walk on the moon, live and work at the moon base, and help pioneer the systems and operations that will ultimately carry crews to Mars.” He emphasized the need for “technical excellence, sound judgment, teamwork and courage.”

To qualify, applicants must hold a master’s degree in a relevant field (engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics), have completed two years of doctoral coursework, possess a qualifying medical degree (MD, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner), or have completed a recognized test pilot school by July 2027.

Professional experience of at least three years is also required following degree completion or pilot training. Pilot candidates need 750 hours as a lead pilot of a high-performance jet, 1,500 hours in fixed-wing aircraft (with 750 in command), or 1,000 hours in rotary-wing aircraft (with 300 in command). Flight test experience requires completion or enrollment in test pilot school, while medical applicants need experience including residencies. Other disciplines require three years of related work experience.

Successful applicants must pass medical and psychiatric evaluations, achieve correctable vision of 20/20, and undergo background checks and drug screenings. They must also demonstrate the ability to handle strenuous physical activity, tolerate hazardous conditions, and endure prolonged isolation in confined spaces. A swimming test is also part of the evaluation process. Candidates must be prepared for missions lasting 12 months or longer, involving extreme isolation and separation from family.