NASA Astronaut Jobs Offer $164,000 for Lunar and Deep-Space Missions

NASA is officially accepting applications for individuals to join its next generation of space explorers, offering a starting salary of $164,395 per year. The recruitment drive supports the Artemis program and future missions to the Moon and beyond. Applications will remain open until 11:59 p.m. EST on December 3.

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

Since the beginning of the U.S. space program in the mid-20th century, NASA has selected 370 individuals for astronaut training. The newest recruits will join the agency's active astronaut corps and prepare for demanding assignments. The agency announced the recruitment drive on X, featuring astronauts Jessica Meir, Andre Douglas, Deniz Burnham, Randy Bresnik, Kayla Barron, Jack Hathaway, and Chris Williams.

Requirements and Selection Process

Applicants hoping to become a NASA astronaut must meet strict educational and professional requirements. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and hold a master's degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field from an accredited institution. Qualifying subjects include engineering, biological science, physical science, and computer science. Those without a completed master's degree may still qualify if they have completed at least two years of work toward a doctoral program.

Additionally, candidates must have at least three years of related professional experience, provide five strong references, and pass the agency's long-duration astronaut flight physical. After applications are reviewed, a selection board will invite top candidates to the Johnson Space Center in Houston for initial interviews, followed by a second round of screening for about half of those interviewed.

Successful applicants will report to Houston for two years of intensive training covering T-38 high-performance jet piloting, robotic arm operations, spacewalks, lunar geology, and space station management.

“For those who apply, becoming a NASA astronaut is more than a career opportunity,” said Scott Tingle, chief astronaut and chair of the Astronaut Selection Board at Johnson Space Center. “It is a chance to join a legacy of explorers who have pushed the boundaries of discovery and play a role in the missions that will shape humanity's future in space.”