what steps should I take if I want to become an astronaut?

Answer 1

One small step for man...

Sorry couldn't resist. Science A-levels would be the best starting point then a degree - see these links:

http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/outreach/jobsinfo/astronaut101.html

http://www.nasajobs.nasa.gov/astronauts/content/faq.htm

Answer 2

There are two ways to become an astronaut.

The first is by becoming a pilot (join the Air Force) and then working for NASA and the military.

The second is by being an instrument specialist on a mission. However, that takes a PhD in astronomy/physics (10 years of college) and then a lot more work and luck that most people who get the degree never even bother with. You have a much better shot by going through the military.

Answer 3

There are a few different positions under the category of "astronaut" -- Astronaut Pilot and Mission Specialist. These info were taken from the NASA website:

Basic requirements for an Astronaut Pilot include the following:

1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, or mathematics. An advanced degree is desirable. Quality of academic preparation is important.

2. At least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft. Flight test experience is highly desirable.

3. Ability to pass a NASA space physical which is similar to a military or civilian flight physical and includes the following specific standards:

* Distant visual acuity: 20/100 or better uncorrected, correctable to 20/20 each eye.
* Blood pressure: 140/90 measured in a sitting position.
* Height between 64 and 76 inches.

Basic requirements for a Mission Specialist include the following:

1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, or mathematics. Degree must be followed by at least three years of related, progressively responsible, professional experience. An advanced degree is desirable and may be substituted for part or all of the experience requirement (master's degree = 1 year of experience, doctoral degree = 3 years of experience). Quality of academic preparation is important.

2. Ability to pass a NASA space physical, which is similar to a military or civilian flight physical and includes the following specific standards:

* Distance visual acuity: 20/200 or better uncorrected, correctable to 20/20, each eye.
* Blood pressure: 140/90 measured in a sitting position.

3. Height between 58.5 and 76 inches.

Answer 4

A series of "One Small Steps" would be a great start. Other than that, an aeronautical or space engineering degree would be a good start, with a further degree in geology. That would increase your usefulness. Stay fit, join the air force maybe. Train to be a pilot.

Answer 5

And not just a degree in a very high-tech science, but being the best at it, too.

Air Force/Navy fighter pilot certification is a plus, but not a substitute for the above.

You and a million other wannabe's are going to show up at NASA's door one day. They may only need two or three dozen from that field. They get to pick the best. Good luck.

Answer 6

Nasa has a whole page about this but...
You need a degree in Astronomy, Physics, Aeronautical Engineering, and Mathmatics. You also need 1000 hours of flying, so i would recogmend the Navy... or Air Force... I am gonna be an astroanut too so i have been doing my research...

Answer 7

You would first need to join the air force, or either be a scientist that wants to do some kind of research in space.

Answer 8

An aeronautic or space engineering degree would be a good first step.

Answer 9

NASA is obsessed and consumed with inserting queries and instrumentation into astronauts' rectums Homosexuality would then be a good opening move.

Answer 10

the first step is to become an military aviator