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NASA Is Recruiting New Astronauts To Go To The Moon

NASA Is Recruiting New Astronauts To Go To The Moon

The space centre is looking for a batch of new recruits to take part in future missions

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

Ever watched Apollo 13 and thought, 'I could do better than that'? Well, this could be your chance to prove what you've got.

The space boffins over at NASA are looking for the next set of recruits to boldly go where some people have gone before.

Hiring next month, they will be training a bunch of newbies up to take part in future missions to the moon, with the aim of jetting off into space in just four years time.

Speaking about the recruitment drive, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said: "We're celebrating our 20th year of continuous presence aboard the International Space Station in low-Earth orbit this year, and we're on the verge of sending the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024.

Could you be going to the moon?
PA

"For the handful of highly talented women and men we will hire to join our diverse astronaut corps, it's an incredible time in human spaceflight to be an astronaut.

"We're asking all eligible Americans if they have what it to takes to apply beginning 2 March."

However, before you get too excited about the chance of walking on the moon, the role comes with a fair few requirements - I mean, they're not just gonna let anyone go messing about in space, are they?

Firstly, you have to have US citizenship and have a master's degree from an accredited institution in any one of the following: computer science, mathematics, engineering, biological science or physical science.

You can also apply if you have at least two years experience in a PhD program related to science, in technology, engineering or mathematics.

Reckon you've got the minerals?
PA

You are also eligible if you have completed a doctorate in medicine or are a doctor of osteopathic medicine.

Bosses at NASA will even consider you if you have completed - or are set to complete - a nationally recognised test pilot school programme.

You must also have either at least two years of 'related, progressively responsible professional experience', or 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet.

All applicants must also pass NASA's long-duration spaceflight physical.

NASA says successful candidates could end up as a crew member of NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft and travel to the moon.

If you think you have what it takes to be the next Buzz Aldrin, you can apply for a place on the programme here.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Science, Interesting, US News, Nasa, space