NASA is searching for the next generation of astronauts, and those selected could become part of one of the most ambitious chapters in human space exploration: establishing a lasting presence on the Moon and preparing for future missions to Mars.
The US space agency has officially opened applications for new astronaut candidates as it expands its Artemis program. The recruitment drive is aimed at finding qualified individuals who could eventually help build and operate a lunar base, conduct missions on the Moon, and develop the technology and systems needed to send astronauts farther into space.
The announcement was made on Saturday during an airshow at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, where the agency highlighted its plans for lunar exploration alongside developments in aviation and technology.
“It’s an extraordinary time to join NASA’s astronaut corps. The individuals we select can walk on the Moon, live and work at the lunar base, and help develop the systems and operations that will ultimately enable crewed missions to Mars,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman.
The recruitment process will take time, with NASA expecting to announce its final selection toward the end of 2027. Those chosen will then begin training to prepare for the demanding responsibilities associated with human spaceflight.
The agency’s previous recruitment campaign took place in 2024 and attracted considerable interest. More than 8,000 people submitted applications, but only 10 candidates were selected in September 2025 to join the astronaut training program.
Since the 1960s, NASA has selected a total of 370 people to train as astronaut candidates. The agency currently has 32 active astronauts, making each new recruitment round an important opportunity to bring additional experience and expertise into its space exploration program.
The recruitment drive comes as NASA works toward its goal of returning American astronauts to the Moon in 2028.
The planned missions form part of the Artemis program, which aims to take human exploration beyond the short visits made during the Apollo era and establish the foundations for a more sustained presence on the lunar surface.
Private space companies are also expected to play an important role. SpaceX and Blue Origin are among the companies working to support NASA’s plans, with both seeking to contribute to the technology and systems needed to land a crew on the Moon.
Who can apply to become a NASA astronaut?
NASA has established specific educational, professional and flight experience requirements for anyone interested in joining its astronaut program.
Applicants must be US citizens and meet at least one of the agency’s qualifying educational or professional pathways. These include holding a master’s degree in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) field, possessing medical qualifications, having pilot training, or completing at least two years of work toward a relevant doctoral program.
In addition to meeting one of these requirements, candidates must have at least three years of professional experience in a related field.
Pilots face separate flight experience requirements, depending on the type of aircraft they have operated.
Those with experience flying high-performance jet aircraft must have accumulated at least 750 hours as pilot in command. Applicants with experience in other fixed-wing aircraft must have at least 1,500 flight hours, while helicopter pilots must demonstrate a minimum of 1,000 hours.
People who meet NASA’s requirements have until December 3 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time to submit their applications.
