NASA is accepting applications through Dec. 3 for its next astronaut class, whose members could help return humans to the Moon and prepare for future missions to Mars. (Foto: Instagram)
NASA is accepting applications for its next astronaut class, whose members will be trained to live and work on the lunar surface. The agency says selected astronauts are expected to take part in missions that return humans to the Moon, help establish a lasting human presence there and prepare for future exploration of Mars. The annual salary is $164,395, or about 919,510.55 Brazilian reais.
NASA’s Artemis program is advancing plans for a lunar base and missions to the Moon. The agency says experience gained on those missions will help develop the technology, capabilities and knowledge needed for future deep-space exploration. Applications are open through Dec. 3, and only U.S. citizens may apply. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics field from an accredited institution and have at least three years of relevant professional experience after completing their education.
For pilots, flight time may count toward the professional-experience requirement. Applicants with experience flying high-performance jets must have at least 750 hours as pilot in command. For other fixed-wing aircraft, the requirement is 1,500 total flight hours, including 750 hours as pilot in command. For rotary-wing aircraft, applicants need 1,000 total hours, including 300 hours as pilot in command. Physicians may count residency toward the experience requirement, but their residency must be completed by July 2027.
Candidates also must pass NASA’s long-duration spaceflight physical and demonstrate strong leadership, teamwork and communication skills, the agency said. A committee will invite a small group of the most qualified applicants to interview at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. About half of those interviewed will be invited for a second interview, and new astronaut candidates will be selected from that group.
Those chosen will complete two years of training at the center. The program includes spacewalks, space station operations, flying T-38 jets and controlling a robotic arm. Trainees will also study subjects including lunar geology and extravehicular activities, joining NASA’s active astronaut corps as they prepare for potential assignments.
NASA last opened astronaut applications in 2024. More than 8,000 people applied, and 10 astronaut candidates were selected in 2025; they are now completing nearly two years of training. Since 1960, the agency has selected 370 people for astronaut-candidate training. NASA currently has 32 active astronauts.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman described the opening as an opportunity to join the astronaut corps at a significant point in the agency’s lunar and Mars ambitions. He said those selected could walk on the Moon, live and work at the lunar base, and help develop systems and operations for missions to Mars. The work, he said, will require technical excellence, sound judgment, teamwork and courage. He also called on applicants ready to take on extraordinary challenges in service to the country to help shape the next chapter of human exploration.
