This week NASA has launched open applications for ‘Future Explorers’, a.k.a Astronauts. Your mission, to fly farther than humans have ever been before.
You’ll be working on four U.S. spacecraft over your career including: the international space station, 2 new commercial spacecraft and the Orion deep-space exploration vehicle – your office/home for the journey to Mars.
The salary rage: $66,026.00 to $144,566.00 per year.
LIVE NOW: @Reddit_AMA on how to #BeAnAstronaut! Join in and ask your questions: https://t.co/fND4NLnCq4 pic.twitter.com/TYMIY2Kmzr
— NASA (@NASA) December 14, 2015
Before we all get excited, the requirements could be a snag in the plans for us everyday folk. Firstly, only U.S. citizens can apply, and then you must have extensive experience in science and technology, “at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft”, “meet the anthropometric requirements” that is have the correct body proportion measurements, undergo medical examinations, disclose all your financial information and of course LOVE travel.
Once in you’ll be required to train for at least 2 to 3 years before heading off on long duration missions, lasting anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
Good working conditions: For four years in a row NASA has been named the best place to work in the federal government.
“NASA is on an ambitious journey to Mars and we’re looking for talented men and women from diverse backgrounds and every walk of life to help get us there.”
Charles Bolden, NASA Administrator and former astronaut.
Astronaut candidate applications are open till 18 February 2016.
