How to Search for Astronaut Training
The United States space program began in the 1950s, when the country was becoming involved in the "space race" with the Soviet Union. In 1959, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, better known as NASA, asked the U.S. military for recommendations for some good jet pilots who might consider joining NASA's astronaut training program. From this process, the first American astronauts-in-training were selected.
Since then, the United States, through NASA, has engaged in a wide variety of space missions. They include missions in the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Space Shuttle programs, followed by Space Shuttle missions. While becoming an astronaut is extremely competitive (approximately 1,000 people apply for every 10 open spots in the training program), there are astronaut training programs for both civilians and military personnel.
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Instructions
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Search NASA Online
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Open up a new Internet browser window and visit NASA.gov. Click on "NASA Centers" on the right side of the website, and then click on "Johnson Space Center." On the following page, click on the "Astronauts" tab on the left-side menu, and then click on "Astronaut Selection and Training" near the middle of the next page.
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Click on "Astronaut Candidate Program" and "How to Become an Astronaut 101" on the left side of the page to read about how a civilian can train to become an astronaut with NASA. Each article provides information about what NASA looks for in astronaut applicants, what kind of educational background is needed, and information about the training process, which takes about two years.
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Check "Application Procedures" to find out if NASA currently has any astronaut candidate positions open. When positions are open, both civilian and military personnel can apply by visiting USAJobs.gov and following the on-screen prompts.
Writing to NASA
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Compose a letter to NASA to inquire about any civilian astronaut training programs that may be available to the public. Tell NASA about your qualifications and why you want to apply to be an astronaut. Include your contact information at the end of the letter. Include a copy of an updated resume to go along with your letter. Use pen and paper to write your letter, or use word processing software to type your letter.
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Send your letter to NASA's email if you want to inquire about openings and express your interest by email. The email address for those interested in astronaut training is astronaut.selection@mail.nasa.gov. If you wrote or typed your letter, place it it in a stamped envelope and send it to NASA's Johnson Space Center. Address your letter to:
NASA Johnson Space Center
Mail Code AHX
2101 NASA Parkway Houston, TX 77058-3696
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Wait for NASA to contact you with the information you requested about astronaut training programs for civilians. Depending on your qualifications, NASA may call you to talk about your potential as an astronaut or simply direct you to their website. If you sent your letter to NASA via email, you may receive a quicker response.
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References
- Photo Credit NASA/Getty Images News/Getty Images
