How Pilots Can Join NASA’s Astronaut Corps

Extensive flying experience can be used to meet NASA’s professional experience requirements for astronaut candidates.

Jack Daleo

Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 10:30 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

NASA announced its 24th astronaut class in September 2025, and candidates are completing nearly two years of rigorous training. [Credit: NASA/Helen Arase Vargas]

Key Takeaways:

NASA is actively recruiting its next class of astronauts, specifically seasoned pilots, for upcoming missions to the Moon and eventually Mars.
Key eligibility criteria include U.S. citizenship, specific professional flying experience (e.g., 750 hours pilot-in-command in high-performance jets), a master's degree in a STEM field or equivalent, and passing a demanding physical.
The application period for prospective astronauts closes on December 3, with candidate selections anticipated in late 2027.
Pilots, particularly those with military aviation backgrounds and extensive flight hours, have historically comprised a significant portion of NASA's astronaut corps, including those leading current high-profile missions like Artemis II and III.

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Seasoned pilots have the opportunity to be part of NASA’s next class of astronauts as the space agency charts a return to the moon and seeks to send the first humans to Mars.

NASA last opened applications in 2024 and selected 10 candidates from a pool of more than 8,000 applicants for its 24th astronaut class. In September 2025, they began rigorous training that will span close to two years.