How to become an astronaut

What duties, roles and responsibilities will I have if I choose to become an astronaut?

Becoming an astronaut in the UK is a truly remarkable journey filled with numerous challenges and responsibilities. It is a career path that offers the opportunity to explore the vastness of space and make profound contributions to science and technology.

Here are the key roles and duties you would take on as an astronaut:

• Space exploration and going on exciting missions.
• Perform scientific experiments in space which cover areas such as biology, physics and earth sciences.
• Ensure the spacecraft’s systems are running smoothly. This includes checking everything from navigation and life support systems to communication equipment.
• Perform spacewalks, extra-vehicular activities and repair or maintain equipment on the spacecraft.
• Work closely with a team, both on the ground and in space as effective teamwork is essential to space mission success and safety.
• Maintain physical fitness due to the physical demands of space travel.
• Engage in ongoing training to keep up with new technology and equipment.
• Be able to think quickly and solve problems in case you encounter unexpected challenges in space.
• Work with astronauts from other countries.

What qualifications do I need when applying to become an astronaut?

The journey to become an astronaut in the UK and potentially work with the European Space Agency (ESA) or even NASA is not for the faint of heart. It demands years of preparation, hard work and determination. However, for those who possess the required qualifications, the journey can be extraordinarily rewarding.

The European Space Agency is actively seeking new astronauts to join their ranks. They offer an exciting opportunity for individuals with a passion for space exploration. Their astronaut selection campaigns present enticing benefits for candidates.

So, if you are looking to become an astronaut, these are some of the ways you can get into the role:

You have two options for astronaut training. These include training with:

• The European Astronaut Corps
• NASA

In order to qualify, you must be 27-37 years old. You must be fluent in English. But, if you have knowledge of the Russian language, it can be an advantage since it is the second language used on the International Space Station.

You will have another advantage if you are a pilot and have a flying experience of 1000 hours in a high-performance aircraft, such as a fighter jet.

Having a postgraduate qualification in addition to a degree in a relevant field is also essential for becoming an astronaut. These fields include:

• Chemistry, physics or biology
• Medicine
• Mathematics
• Engineering
• Aeronautics

To be able to work as an astronaut with NASA, you must hold US dual-citizenship or US citizenship.

What skills will I need if I want to apply to be an astronaut?

The role of an astronaut involves not only exploring the mysteries of space, but also undertaking physically and mentally demanding missions. These are often done in international collaboration with astronauts from various countries. Becoming an astronaut in the UK is a highly competitive career path. To excel in this role, you must possess a specific skill set including:

• A solid understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics since space missions often involve complex scientific experiments.
• Must have exceptional physical fitness to endure the physical challenges of space travel.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure, adapt to unfamiliar situations and maintain focus during long missions.
• Excellent communication skills as you will have to work closely with your team both on Earth and in space.
• Must have excellent decision-making skills.
• Willingness to learn continuously and adapt to the ever-changing space environment.
• The ability to speak English fluently and knowledge of additional languages.
• Deep passion for space exploration and dedication to the astronaut career.

How much do astronauts earn when they begin to work with space agencies?

The average annual salary of an astronaut can vary significantly depending on a number of factors. These include experience and their specific roles within the space agency. On average, the basic salary for a newly selected astronaut starts at £40,000.

With each space mission or promotion to higher positions, the salary can increase significantly.  Experienced astronauts can earn up to £86,000 per year. However, senior astronauts particularly those in leadership or specialised roles often surpass six figures annually.

It is also important to note that the compensation for astronauts may include additional benefits and allowances.

Possible career progression of an astronaut in the UK

The career progression of an astronaut can be as diverse as the space missions they undertake. It often begins with rigorous training and preparation. It may take years of training for astronauts to embark on their missions, typically to the International Space Station or ISS. These initial missions provide valuable experience in conducting experiments, maintaining aircraft and adapting to the space environment.

As astronauts gain more experience, they progress to roles with higher responsibilities. They can become mission commanders and oversee the entire mission. Some choose to specialise in specific areas such as conducting complex experiments, spacewalks or robotics operations.

Beyond space missions, astronauts can also contribute to various technical and scientific roles within the space agency. They may be involved in spacecraft design and development, mission planning or evaluation of space technology.

Some astronauts transition into managerial and leadership positions within the space agency. This enables them to lead astronaut training programs, manage mission planning and oversee technical departments. After accumulating years of experience and knowledge, some astronauts choose to engage in educational outreach, while others engage in international collaborations.

Basically, their career progression is marked by continuous learning, adaptability and a dedication to space exploration.

What are the working hours of an astronaut?

The working hours are quite different from traditional 9-5 jobs. Astronauts follow a tightly regimented schedule while in training and during space missions.

During the training period, they typically adhere to a full-time schedule, much like a regular workday. They may work 39-41 hours per week. This training includes a mix of classroom learning, simulations, physical fitness and hands-on experience with spacecraft and equipment.

However, when astronauts go on space missions, they work on a strict timetable dictated by mission control on Earth. During space missions, astronauts may work for longer periods of time, carrying out scheduled activities. There may be times when astronauts will be required to be on-call or work outside their regular hours. Working weekends, evenings and bank holidays are also very common in this profession.

What is the working environment of an astronaut?

Astronauts will often find themselves in a unique setting, which is predominantly split between training on Earth and conducting missions in space. Their working environment can be both extraordinary and highly demanding.

Astronauts spend a significant portion of their career in training facilities on Earth. These are state-of-the-art centres designed to simulate various aspects of space missions. Training involves everything from spacecraft operations, spacewalks and emergency procedures to language learning and intensive physical fitness training.

During space missions, their primary workspace is the spacecraft itself. Here, they conduct experiments, maintain systems and operate spacecraft equipment. The astronaut’s working environment is not without its challenges and risks. They often encounter spacewalk incidents and equipment malfunctions.

Frequently asked questions related to astronaut selection, NASA astronaut, military astronaut and space tourism

What are the basic qualifications for astronaut selection in the UK?

Candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, mathematics or science.

Do astronaut candidates have to meet physical fitness standards?

Astronauts are required to be in excellent physical shape and must pass a series of physical and medical exams.

What is the age limit for astronaut candidates?

Candidates must be between 27-37 years old.

Do you need military experience to become a NASA astronaut?

While many astronauts have military backgrounds, it is not a strict requirement. Civilian candidates with relevant skills and qualifications are also selected.

How are NASA astronauts selected and trained?

NASA selects astronauts through a rigorous process and once selected, candidates undergo extensive training in various areas, including spacewalks, robotics and spacecraft systems.

How long is a typical NASA astronaut mission in space?

NASA missions can vary in duration and last between six months to one year. Some missions can be shorter and some can be longer.

What is the role of NASA military astronauts in space exploration?

Military astronauts contribute their expertise to national security and defence-related missions in space.

Do NASA military astronauts have different training than civilian astronauts?

While there is overlap in training, military astronauts need and receive specialised training related to their roles in national security and defence.

Can civilians become military astronauts for NASA?

In some cases, civilians can become military astronauts by joining the military and meeting their specific requirements. The selection process often includes military training.

What is space tourism and is it available in the UK?

Space tourism refers to the emerging sector of the aerospace industry that allows private individuals to experience space travel, often for recreational or leisure purposes. This burgeoning field aims to democratize access to space, making it possible for non-professional astronauts to experience the thrill of leaving Earth’s atmosphere and potentially experiencing zero-gravity conditions.

As for its availability in the UK, there are agencies and companies that offer services related to space tourism. While the UK itself doesn’t currently have spaceports for launching tourists into space, British citizens can access these services through international providers.