NASA is opening the door to the next generation of space explorers, accepting applications for its next class of astronauts who could one day help lead missions to the moon and Mars.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens with an advanced degree in a qualifying field. Those selected will train for spacewalks, lunar exploration and flight operations.
Competition is expected to be intense. In its last round, NASA selected just 10 candidates from more than 8,000 applicants.
New York has a deep history in America’s space program, with several astronauts hailing from across the state. Eileen Collins of Elmira became the first female commander of a space flight. Nicole P. Stott of Albany served as a mission specialist for two space shuttle missions. Edward Gibson of Buffalo served as the science pilot for Skylab Four.
Karol J. Bobko of New York City was the first graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy to become an astronaut, serving on three space shuttle missions, including the maiden flight of the Challenger.
New York is also tied to one of the nation’s darkest days in spaceflight history. Michael P. Anderson of Plattsburgh was one of the seven astronauts who died during the Columbia disaster.
