Astronauts are people who do activities related to human space exploration. Becoming an astronaut doesn't just happen overnight. It takes many years of education and experience to meet the basic qualifications


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 62 and 75 inches.