NASA is now actively looking for the next generation of astronauts for the Artemis Moon-to-Mars program and is taking applications.
Astronaut candidates must have earned a master’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics. The requirement for the master’s degree can also be met by:
•Two years (36 semester hours or 54 quarter hours) of work toward a Ph.D. program in related science, technology, engineering or math field;
•A completed doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine degree;
• Completion (or current enrollment that will result in completion by June 2021) of a nationally recognized test pilot school program.
Candidates also must have at least two years of related, progressively responsible professional experience, or at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft. Astronaut candidates must pass the NASA long-duration spaceflight physical and may be asked to complete an online assessment, which could take up to two hours to complete.
If you make the cut and have the right stuff (I couldn’t resist), the pay is GS-13-14 which works out to about $104,898 to $161,141 per year, plus benefits.
Oh yeah, and there may be some travel.
Still not convinced? Park a STEM-inclined young person who meets the above qualifications in front of 100-year-old Tuskegee Airman, (Bvt) Brig. Gen. Charles McGee for a minute or two.