The next footprints on the Moon could belong to someone applying today.
The space agency is searching for its next generation of astronauts, opening applications for candidates who could help establish a permanent presence on the Moon and pave the way for the first human missions to Mars.
“This is an extraordinary time to join NASA’s astronaut corps,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “The people we select could walk on the Moon, live and work at the Moon Base, and help pioneer the systems and operations that will ultimately carry crews to Mars.”
NASA expects to make its final selections in late 2027, with the new astronaut candidates beginning training for future missions.
The agency last opened applications in 2024, drawing more than 8,000 applicants. Just 10 were selected for the 2025 astronaut class and are currently completing nearly two years of training.
Since the 1960s, NASA has selected 370 astronaut candidates. Today, the agency has 32 active astronauts.
Think you’ve got what it takes?
Becoming an astronaut requires more than a love of space.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and generally hold a master’s degree in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics field, including engineering, biological science, physical science or computer science.
NASA also accepts certain alternative qualifications, including advanced doctoral studies, qualifying medical degrees or completion of a recognized test pilot school program.
Candidates must have at least three years of relevant professional experience after completing their qualifying degree. Pilots may meet the experience requirement through specified flight-hour qualifications.
Applicants must also pass NASA’s long-duration astronaut flight physical and demonstrate leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
Those selected will train in spacewalking, lunar geology, high-performance aircraft operations and other skills necessary for missions beyond Earth.
“For those who apply, becoming a NASA astronaut is more than a career opportunity,” said Scott Tingle, chief astronaut and chair of the Astronaut Selection Board at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “It is a chance to join a legacy of explorers who have pushed the boundaries of discovery and play a role in the missions that will shape humanity’s future in space.”
The next stop: The Moon
The recruitment effort comes as NASA advances its plans for a Moon Base near the lunar South Pole, where astronauts will conduct scientific research, test new technologies and prepare for longer missions into deep space.
The work also has connections to Huntsville, home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, which plays a key role in the nation’s lunar exploration efforts.
Future astronauts could be among the first to live and work at the Moon Base, helping establish the infrastructure and operational experience needed for eventual missions to Mars.
“The window is open. The mission is waiting. And the only thing missing from the greatest adventure humanity has ever embarked upon is you,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson.
Interested applicants can apply online through NASA. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST Thursday, Dec. 3.
Additional information about qualifications and the selection process is available at NASA’s astronaut recruitment website.
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