NASA opens astronaut applications for its next exploration class

NASA is accepting applications for astronauts who could support lunar surface missions, Moon Base operations and preparations for eventual crewed Mars missions. The agency has 32 active astronauts; its previous recruitment drew more than 8,000 applications and produced 10 candidates selected in 2025. [5][7] Why it matters: For eligible U.S. citizens, this is a concrete application window rather than a general invitation to consider a space career: completed materials are due at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 3. The last class selected 10 people from more than 8,000 applicants—fewer than one in 800—giving prospective applicants a measure of the competition. [5] Key insights: The standard education requirement is a master’s degree in a STEM field, although NASA also accepts specified doctoral study, medical qualifications and test-pilot training routes. [5] | Applicants relying on a recognized Test Pilot School program must complete it by July 2027; a STEM bachelor’s degree is also required when that is their only advanced technical qualification. [5] | The 10 candidates chosen in 2025 are completing nearly two years of training, showing that selection is the beginning of preparation rather than an immediate flight assignment. [5] Cheatsheet facts: What happened: NASA opened applications for its next astronaut class to support its expanding lunar exploration program. [5][7] | Why: The agency has 32 active astronauts and is preparing for lunar surface work, Moon Base operations and eventual crewed Mars missions. [5][7] | The catch: Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet NASA’s education requirements; the previous round selected 10 candidates from more than 8,000 applications. [5] | What's next: Applications close at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 3, and NASA expects to make its final selection in late 2027. [5]