NASA Invites Applications for New Astronauts as Artemis Programme Expands
NASA has opened applications for a new batch of astronaut candidates as the US space agency prepares for its ambitious Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and eventually pave the way for crewed missions to Mars.
With the agency facing a growing workload and a limited number of active astronauts, NASA is seeking fresh talent to support its upcoming space exploration missions.
“We have far more work than we have astronauts,” Artemis III commander Randy Bresnik told The Associated Press on Saturday.
According to NASA’s official website, interested candidates can submit their applications until December 3, 2026. The recruitment drive is expected to attract individuals aspiring to become part of the next generation of space explorers.
Bresnik encouraged applicants not to miss the opportunity, saying that humans would be on the Moon by the time the selection process progresses.
NASA plans to complete the final selection of astronaut candidates by late 2027, while intensive training is expected to begin in early 2028.
The selected candidates will undergo extensive training for a range of assignments, including operations aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and future missions to the lunar surface.
Applicants are generally required to be US citizens with a master’s degree in a STEM-related discipline, including engineering, biological science, physical science or computer science. They must also have several years of relevant professional experience.
Experienced pilots with thousands of hours of flight experience may also qualify for the selection process.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman described the recruitment drive as an extraordinary opportunity to become part of the agency’s astronaut corps.
He said the selected candidates could one day walk on the Moon, live and work at a lunar base, and contribute to developing the technologies and operational systems needed for future human missions to Mars.
He further highlighted that such ambitious missions would require exceptional technical expertise, sound decision-making, teamwork and courage.
NASA has also invited talented Americans who are willing to take on challenging responsibilities in the service of their country to become part of its long-standing astronaut tradition.
Emphasising the importance of the opportunity, NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson said, “The window is open. The mission is waiting. And the only thing missing from the greatest adventure humanity has ever embarked upon is you.”
With the Artemis programme entering a significant phase, NASA’s latest recruitment drive marks another step towards expanding human exploration beyond Earth.
