A large number of space expeditions planned for Moon and Mars require new volunteers who are not afraid of long space flights and whose state of health enables them to overcome millions of kilometers in weightlessness. The search for astronauts takes place against the background of the organization of the Artemis program, in which a man and a woman are sent to the moon. According to NASA experts, a detailed study of our natural satellite can prepare humanity for an even bigger step – sending the first astronauts to Mars. So what needs to be done to get to the Red Planet?

Almost anyone can become a new NASA astronaut

How do I get to NASA astronauts?

If you have always wanted to see the moon or Mars with your own eyes, your time has come: For the first time in several years, NASA accepted applications from future candidates for astronauts from the world-famous space agency. Hurry up though: Beginners exploring the Moon and Mars should have time to submit a long-awaited application by March 31.

As practice shows, a large number of astronauts are being called at a time when NASA is preparing for another major mission. This time, the organization plans to launch a new set to actively prepare for a new mission called Artemis, which implies the astronauts' return to the moon after a break of almost fifty years.

In order for your application for astronauts to be approved, you must go through a rigorous selection process that defines a number of important characteristics for the successful completion of the mission and is able to bypass other competitors. During the selection process in 2015, a record number of applications for astronauts was registered – 18,300, but after almost two years of intensive training, only 11 astronauts were able to complete their studies at NASA.

The Artemis mission will deliver two astronauts to the moon – a man and a woman

Although becoming an astronaut may be a difficult task for someone, Steve Kerner, director of flight operations at NASA, believes that a true enthusiast can do it all. Those who apply will most likely compete with thousands who have dreamed and worked to fly into space for as long as they can remember. Among all applicants, however, preference is given to those who are really ready to undertake complex space exploration missions.

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As you may have guessed, the most preferred candidates for space flight are the specialists whose expertise in emergency situations can be helpful. The main requirements in this case include the availability of a master's degree in engineering, biology, physics, mathematics and computer science, the possession of which can be demonstrated by a diploma obtained from an accredited institution. The requirement for a master's degree can also be met by a completed MD degree.

The selection of astronauts is scheduled to be completed in June 2021. Throughout the designated period, candidates must complete NASA school training while improving their physical preparation for a long space flight. After completing the training, new astronauts will go to the ISS, where they can take part in experiments to prepare for the flight to the moon and Mars.

Before you dream of space flights, I recommend you read an article about the strange rules of astronauts that they must adhere to. Do you know that in space you don't feel whether you want to use the toilet or not? Therefore, astronauts have to wear diapers.

It is known that after its return to the moon in 2024, NASA plans to send astronauts to the satellite surface once a year with the Orion spacecraft. After creating a permanently inhabited base on the moon, the scientists hope to establish a 24-hour regime for exploring the moon by 2028. The experience from this mission will prepare NASA to send the first humans to Mars in the mid-2030s.

The third decade of the 21st century promises great space discoveries. As NASA prepares to send the Artemis mission to the moon, the famous James Webb telescope, which will open the curtain on the secrets of distant exoplanets, is preparing to launch. In this article you can read about the work of the orbital telescope of the future.