3 answers
Violet
Student
Scottsdale, Arizona
2
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Do you need military experience to be an astronaut
#space #astronaut
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3 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4362
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Violet,
Do you need military experience to be an astronaut?
No, military experience is not a requirement to become an astronaut. While historically many astronauts have come from military backgrounds, it is not a prerequisite for selection by space agencies such as NASA. In fact, NASA’s astronaut candidate requirements emphasize a diverse range of skills and backgrounds beyond just military service.
NASA typically looks for candidates with a strong educational background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. Candidates must also have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in one of these fields. Additionally, relevant professional experience in fields such as engineering, piloting, or scientific research is highly valued.
Moreover, NASA seeks individuals with qualities like teamwork, communication skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. These traits are essential for astronauts who work in the demanding and dynamic environment of space missions.
While military pilots have traditionally been selected as astronauts due to their expertise in flying high-performance aircraft and operating under pressure, civilian candidates with relevant skills and experiences are also considered. In recent years, NASA has diversified its astronaut corps to include individuals from various backgrounds, including scientists, engineers, medical doctors, and even teachers.
Therefore, while military experience can be beneficial for aspiring astronauts due to the skills and discipline it instills, it is not a strict requirement for selection into space programs like NASA’s astronaut corps.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
NASA: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) provides detailed information on its astronaut selection criteria and requirements on its official website. NASA’s astronaut selection process is transparent and outlines the qualifications needed to become an astronaut.
Space.com: Space.com is a reputable source for space-related news and information. It often covers topics related to astronaut selection criteria and the diverse backgrounds of individuals chosen for space missions.
ESA - European Space Agency: The European Space Agency (ESA) also selects astronauts from various backgrounds beyond the military. Information from ESA’s astronaut selection process can provide additional insights into the qualifications sought by space agencies worldwide.
These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in answering the question about the need for military experience to become an astronaut.
God Bless You,
JC.
Do you need military experience to be an astronaut?
No, military experience is not a requirement to become an astronaut. While historically many astronauts have come from military backgrounds, it is not a prerequisite for selection by space agencies such as NASA. In fact, NASA’s astronaut candidate requirements emphasize a diverse range of skills and backgrounds beyond just military service.
NASA typically looks for candidates with a strong educational background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. Candidates must also have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in one of these fields. Additionally, relevant professional experience in fields such as engineering, piloting, or scientific research is highly valued.
Moreover, NASA seeks individuals with qualities like teamwork, communication skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. These traits are essential for astronauts who work in the demanding and dynamic environment of space missions.
While military pilots have traditionally been selected as astronauts due to their expertise in flying high-performance aircraft and operating under pressure, civilian candidates with relevant skills and experiences are also considered. In recent years, NASA has diversified its astronaut corps to include individuals from various backgrounds, including scientists, engineers, medical doctors, and even teachers.
Therefore, while military experience can be beneficial for aspiring astronauts due to the skills and discipline it instills, it is not a strict requirement for selection into space programs like NASA’s astronaut corps.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
NASA: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) provides detailed information on its astronaut selection criteria and requirements on its official website. NASA’s astronaut selection process is transparent and outlines the qualifications needed to become an astronaut.
Space.com: Space.com is a reputable source for space-related news and information. It often covers topics related to astronaut selection criteria and the diverse backgrounds of individuals chosen for space missions.
ESA - European Space Agency: The European Space Agency (ESA) also selects astronauts from various backgrounds beyond the military. Information from ESA’s astronaut selection process can provide additional insights into the qualifications sought by space agencies worldwide.
These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in answering the question about the need for military experience to become an astronaut.
God Bless You,
JC.
Ryan Moffett
Deal Strategy Manager
27
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
- Military experience is not a requirement to be an astronaut, however it can be used to complete one of the requirements to become one. One of the requirements is "At least three years of related professional experience obtained after degree completion OR at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time on jet aircraft." Military experience can help with the 1000 hours of pilot time.
https://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/postsecondary/features/F_Astronaut_Requirements.html
Matthew Corydon
Sales Analyst
6
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
You do not need any military experience to become an astronaut. Among other things you will need "A bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics".
More info can be found here https://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/postsecondary/features/F_Astronaut_Requirements.html