What is the best way for me to go about becoming an astronaut?

Question

I am only 13 but i want to have a good idea of how i am going to achive my goal before it is too late, many people have told me i should intern at NASA and go to either the Naval Acadamy or ATM, and i would rather go to ATM! But any other suggestions?

I really don't appreciate people who don't answer the question, and just try to be funny... Keep that in mind please...

Answer 1

This is more of a philosophical answer but why do you want to become an Astronaut. Why do you want to join NASA? What are your specific interests and goals? These are hard questions to answer and some people never get these answers in their life.

My advice would be to focus on the above. Keep in mind that NASA hires people from all walks of life. Doctors, engineers, peace officers, soldiers, aviators, programmers, personal trainers, and even artists!

The space program will be totally different when / if you decide to apply to NASA. That translates into different needs for the changed space program. NASA is a HUGE family and there are many ares where your skills (maybe not an astronaut) could apply.

Again, try to answer the first paragraph and you will have a better idea of your goals in your life.

FYI, If you want a good realistic look into the life of an Astronaut I recommend you read "Riding Rockets" by astronaut Mike Mullane then read "Sky Walking" by Astronaut Tom Jones.

Both books take you through the space shuttle program from start to about 2003. Very good reading but I must warn that "Riding Rockets" is very raw and Mike Mullane does not hold back on the realties of his life as an Astronaut. It is intended for adults but non the less it is a very good read.

Hope that helps.

Answer 2

One option is through the Navy or Air Force, becoming a pilot and then volunteering for astronaut training. But more astronauts these days are what are called "Mission Specialists," which means scientists doing space-based research. Learn about the research that has been done in the space program so far. Think about where science is going, and what feilds might benefit from experiments being done in space. Look at the space program itself. There is currently talk of a manned mission to Mars. How could you specialize to contribute to this?

You will need to excel in your education and continue until you get a PhD. Take every opportunity for your research projects to have a space focus. Look for opportunities to meet people in the field and build connections.

Good luck!

Answer 3

If you want to be a pilot, the Naval Academy probably will offer you the best bet. It's hard to go about trying to be a mission specialist. I bet most mission specialists weren't trying to become astronauts before they were in grad school or later.

No matter how you go, becoming an astronaut is a longshot (kind of like becoming a pro athlete), but if you are willing to work hard and if becoming a naval aviator (and getting a really great education at government expense) sounds like a good alternative to you, USNA is your best chance to get your goal. Good luck. I've met Wendy Lawrence (astronaut, USNA grad) a few times and she rocks.

Answer 4

You DO NOT have to become a pilot. Mission Specialists are the scientists that do the experiments on the shuttle. The key word is 'education' - and lots of it. Getting a doctorate degree (8 years of college) is a good avenue. Major in something you love, but also in something NASA will have a use for like medicine, physics, biology, and engineering, etc. I truly hope you reach this goal, and even if you don't, you'll have your college degree, so good luck and happiness always!

Answer 5

You don't go about becoming an astronaut. NASA makes you one. Of course if you want to go get NASA's attention an internship would be great. The best way though in my opinion is to become highly qualified, and the best in a particular field of study. That way when they wanna do research on that particular field, they'll pick you.

So heres the plan. Keep yourself fit, become a highly sought after specialist and get a space agency's attention.

Answer 6

Be an Air Force Pilot or a Navy/Marine pilot then apply for NASA after a few years

Answer 7

Hi. One way is to become a pilot. And pick a specialty that interests you and excel at it!