Applications are now open for the next class of astronauts who will help define the future of human spaceflight. The agency is seeking candidates to join its ranks as it prepares to return to the Moon, establish a permanent presence on the lunar surface, and lay the groundwork for the first crewed missions to Mars.
U.S. citizens interested in joining the astronaut corps have until 11:59 p.m. EST on Thursday, Dec. 3, to submit their completed application materials. The agency expects to make its final selection in late 2027, at which point the new candidates will begin their training.
Moon Base and Mars Missions
The next generation of astronauts will train to operate on the lunar surface, live and work beyond Earth, and take on missions that push the boundaries of human exploration. This effort is part of a broader strategy to establish an enduring human presence on the Moon and advance scientific discovery through the Artemis missions.
“This is an extraordinary time to join NASA’s astronaut corps,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “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. Those missions will demand technical excellence, sound judgment, teamwork, and courage.”
Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson emphasized the urgency and opportunity of the moment. “The window is open. The mission is waiting. And the only thing missing from the greatest adventure humanity has ever embarked upon is you,” Anderson said.
Eligibility and Training
Basic requirements to apply include United States citizenship and a master’s degree in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science, or computer science from an accredited institution. The master’s degree requirement can also be met through specific combinations of bachelor’s degrees and professional experience.
Candidates must also have at least three years of related professional experience after completing their qualifying degree. For pilots, this requirement may be met through flight experience. Medical doctors can count residency training toward the professional experience requirement, provided it is completed by July 2027.
Astronaut candidates must pass NASA’s long-duration astronaut flight physical and demonstrate strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Selected applicants will join the current corps of 32 active astronauts to study spacewalking, lunar geology, and the operations of high-performance aircraft.
Scott Tingle, chief astronaut and chair of the Astronaut Selection Board at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, noted the significance of the role. “For those who apply, becoming a NASA astronaut is more than a career opportunity,” Tingle said. “It is a chance to join a legacy of explorers who have pushed the boundaries of discovery and play a role in the missions that will shape humanity’s future in space.”
NASA last opened applications in 2024. From more than 8,000 applications, 10 astronaut candidates were selected in 2025 and are currently completing nearly two years of training. Since the 1960s, the agency has selected 370 people to train as astronaut candidates for its increasingly challenging missions.
Interested applicants can learn more about the process and career opportunities at the official NASA website.
Source: NASA
