Here’s how to apply for NASA’s astronaut program

NASA is now accepting applications for its next astronaut class as it expands its Artemis program meant to return humans to the moon, establish a long term lunar base, and prepare the first crewed mission to Mars.

Applications are open until 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3, with NASA expected to announce the names of successful candidates in late 2027. Those selected will undergo some two years of training before becoming eligible for future missions.

“The window is open. The mission is waiting. And the only thing missing from the greatest adventure humanity has ever embarked upon is you,” NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson said.

NASA currently has 32 active astronauts and is recruiting more personnel as it prepares for more missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The agency’s last recruitment in 2024 drew more than 8,000 applicants, but only 10 were selected the following year. 

The new astronauts are expected to support the Artemis program, NASA’s campaign to send humans back to the Moon for the first time since the Apollo era. 

Beyond future lunar landings, the program aims to build a sustainable Moon Base where astronauts can live and work while testing technologies needed for eventual missions to Mars. 

To qualify, applicants must be US citizens with a master’s degree in a STEM field such as engineering, biology, physics, computer science, or mathematics.

Equivalent qualifications, including certain medical degrees, two years of doctoral study, or completion of a recognized test pilot school, may also be accepted. 

Applicants must also have at least three years of related professional experience or meet NASA’s flight experience requirements for pilots, pass the agency’s long-duration astronaut physical examination, and demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.