Qualifications of Astronauts

      How can I become a British astronaut?

You must hold a British passport to be considered, and be physically fit. You must have a University degree, and be an adult.

You must be over the age of 18, and agree with our equal opportunities statement. We wish our astronauts to represent the community at large, regardless of gender, disability, faith, race or sexuality.

You must speak and write in English, but we will consider other British languages, like Cornish, Welsh, Gaelic, Scottish and Irish.

Being a member of Facebook may help, because you need to be able to use a computer, and use the internet.

(The British Government will confirm in detail at a date to be announced whether this criteria will be accepted).

      How do I become an American astronaut:

Any adult man or woman in excellent physical condition who meets the basic qualifications can be selected to enter astronaut training.

For mission specialists and pilot astronauts, the minimum requirements include a bachelor's degree in engineering, science or mathematics from an accredited institution. Three years of related experience must follow the degree, and an advanced degree is desirable. Pilot astronauts must have at least 1,000 hours of experience in jet aircraft, and they need better vision than mission specialists.

Becoming an astronaut is extremely competitive, with an average of more than 4,000 applicants for about 20 openings every two years. Astronaut recruiting occurs periodically. You can find the qualifications for becoming an astronaut at the website link listed below or you can write to:

Astronaut Selection Office
NASA Johnson Space Center
Houston, TX 77058
Astronaut Qualifications/Training