NASA Opens Call for New Astronauts
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NASA has announced a new call for astronauts to join its Artemis program, inviting candidates to help build a lunar base and prepare for crewed Mars missions. Applications close on December third, with final selection expected in late 2027 to begin training. The agency last opened applications in 2024, selecting ten astronauts from more than eight thousand applicants in September 2025. NASA has trained three hundred and seventy candidates since the 1960s and currently has thirty‑two active astronauts. Applicants must be U.S. citizens with a master’s degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics, medical qualifications, pilot training, or a doctoral program, plus three years of related professional experience. The program aims to return Americans to the moon in 2028, with SpaceX and Blue Origin slated to support lunar landings.
More context
Timeline
- On November 7 2026 NASA announces astronaut selection timeline.
- On December 3 2026 Applications for new astronauts close.
- On October 1 2027 Training for new class starts.
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: Expands national space workforce Possible long-term US impact: Supports lunar and Mars missions Most affected groups: U.S. citizens with STEM credentials Reader priority: Highlights application deadlines
Coverage notes
Center: Coverage from NASA (.gov), Military Aerospace, The Verge frames this as a developing news story: NASA Opens Call for New Astronauts. Reporting emphasizes verified facts, named sources, and near-term impact for readers. Left: Left-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize public impact, institutional accountability, and who is most affected. Right: Right-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize practical outcomes, market or security stakes, and institutional response.
Primary report
The Guardian — NASA Opens Call for New Astronauts
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
