NASA has announced that applications are now open for its next class of astronauts.
US citizens who want to join the astronaut corps have until 23:59 EST on Thursday, December 3, 2026, to submit their completed applications.
NASA says the next class of astronauts will "join NASA as America returns to the Moon, builds the Moon Base and lays the groundwork for the first crewed missions to Mars."
But anyone seeking to become a NASA astronaut will need to have a pretty polished resume.
More on human spaceflight
NASA last opened applications in 2024. From over 8,000 applications, the space agency says just 10 astronaut candidates were selected in 2025 and are now completing nearly two years of training.
Since the 1960s, NASA has selected 370 people to train as astronaut candidates. As of today, it has 32 astronauts active in the astronaut corps.
The next class of astronauts will be tasked with studying spacewalking, lunar geology and operation of aircraft, among other projects.
NASA will make its final selection for the next class in late 2027.
What NASA says you need to join as an astronaut
The US space agency has a list of requirements that need to be met by those applying to join its next class of astronauts.
Basic requirements
United States citizenship
Master’s degree in a STEM field, such as engineering, biological science, physical science or computer science. Or...
Completion of at least two years of work toward a doctoral program in a technical field of engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics. Or...
Completion of a Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Physician Assistant, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner, or a related medical degree. Or...
Completion of or current enrolment in, a Test Pilot School program, provided the program is completed by July 2027. And...
At least three years related professional experience after completing their qualifying degree.
For pilots
High-performance jet aircraft: 750 hours of pilot-in-command time.
Other fixed-wing aircraft: 1,500 total flight hours, including 750 hours as pilot in command.
Rotary-wing aircraft: 1,000 total flight hours, including 300 hours as pilot in command.
For doctors
Residency training may count towards professional experience requirement and must be completed by July 2027.
Tips from the boss
"The people we select could walk on the Moon, live and work at the Moon Base and help pioneer the systems and operations that will ultimately carry crews to Mars," says NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman.
"Those missions will demand technical excellence, sound judgment, teamwork and courage.
"NASA’s astronaut corps has always called on remarkable Americans willing to take on extraordinary challenges in service to the nation.
"If you are ready to join that tradition, come help write the next chapter of humanity’s greatest adventure."
Apply via NASA's Become An Astronaut web page
