NASA is recruiting new astronaut candidates for the first time in four years, anticipating a competitive selection process due to renewed interest in space exploration and the US’s plans to return to the moon, Bloomberg reports.
In 2020, NASA saw more than 12,000 applicants for 10 positions, the current recruitment drive is expected to attract significant interest, fueled by the US’s renewed focus on lunar exploration and growing public fascination with space exploration.
Applicants must meet basic education and specialized experience requirements, such as pilot, doctor, or engineer backgrounds. Candidates will train for two years to learn essential skills like spacewalking, robotics, and teamwork. The position, based in Houston, offers a salary of $152,000 per year, with extensive travel required.
The deadline for applications is April 2nd.
