How to Become an Astronaut: Career Guide, Courses, After 12th, Scopes, Jobs, Salary

ASTRONAUT

Almost all of us dreamed as children of reaching the moon or touching the stars. Who would have thought that one day, we humans would accomplish so much in such a short period of time? When we were kids, learning about spacecraft landing on planets and the universe piqued our interest. "Being an astronaut" was one of the topics written in most notebooks on what is your dream job to travel in space and know more about the universe is not a handy job and is done by astronauts and Astronaut is a well trained, knowledgeable and well-equipped individual who flies to outer space.

Astronaut Eligibility and Qualification

There are certain requirements in each field that are essential if you want to achieve that. Here are some of the qualifications and requirements that must be met in order to become an astronaut in India.

1. He or she must be an Indian citizen.
2. Because of their professional experience, Indian Air Force pilots are preferred for space missions.
3. Individuals must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised institute, with a degree in engineering preferred. Physics Mathematical Computer Science. Individuals must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, computer science, mathematics, or biology from a recognised institute. 

Bachelor degree courses include:

• B.Sc Aeronautics
• B.E Aeronautical Engineering
• B.Tech Aeronautical Engineering
• B.Tech Aerospace Engineering Hons

Master’s degree courses include:

• ME Aeronautical Engineering
• ME Aerospace Technology/Aerospace Engineering
• M.Tech Aerospace Engineering
• M.Sc. (Astronomy & Astrophysics)

4. An individual should have a school grade point average of 65 percent or a minimum GPA of 6.84 on a scale of ten.
5. A doctorate/degree in Aeronautical Engineering, aerospace engineering, or science is required if you want to advance in your career.

To Work For NASA As An Astronaut

• An individual should be a citizen of the United States.
• A bachelor's degree in physical/computer science, engineering, mathematics, or biology is required.
• He or she must have a score of at least 65 percent.
• Should have a minimum of three years of professional experience. 

Nowadays, not only must you meet these specific eligibility criteria, but you must also meet certain physical and medical requirements. These medical and physical fields are very important in hiring an astronaut because it is a very difficult and risky job that requires a lot of precautions.

For NASA: There will be a training programme for candidates that will include military water survival, scuba diving, swimming, and atmospheric pressure.

ISRO requires no significant medical problems, normal blood pressure, normal visual acuity, and, most importantly, physical fitness.

He should not be a known case of substance abuse, mental capabilities, or other psychological issues.

A satisfactory medical and physical history is required for SpaceX. There should be no prior history of substance abuse, such as alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes, or drugs. Joints function normally. Individuals should be in good physical shape. The candidate should have no psychological issues. Visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes is required. Blood pressure should not be higher than 140/90 while sitting.

Becoming an astronaut necessitates a significant amount of effort.

• Aside from these eligibility requirements, a person should have some skills in order to become an astronaut.
• He or she should be able to communicate effectively.
• Excellent coordination abilities.
• Knowing the English language thoroughly, as well as another foreign language, would be advantageous.
• They should be able to multitask in an emergency.
• In an emergency, they must remain calm and patient.
• He or she should be interested in observing things.
• Should have faith in teamwork
• Excellent leadership quality
• The desire to learn more about anything.
• Trustworthy
• Knowledgeable and resourceful

Education

If you want to become an astronaut, you should start preparing and focusing on it in high school. You should be interested in physics, not just memorise it, but understand the various concepts and how they work.

You should choose physics, chemistry, and mathematics as core subjects for your 12th grade because they will benefit you in a variety of ways. Score a high percentage on the 12th grade boards.

The bachelorette degree is the next step. A renowned university will allow you to study any subject of your choice, such as mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry, or aerospace engineering. For a doctorate or post-graduation, you must have a firm grasp on the subjects you studied during your undergraduate studies, as a doctorate is nothing more than a specialisation in that particular course.

Once you have completed your degrees, you will be able to take certain exams in order to obtain the job you have always desired. If you want to work for NASA, you can apply for the entrance exam for the various designations available. If you want to work for ISRO, you must first pass the "Joint entrance exam" administered by IIT.

If you want to go on a mission and work as a specialist, you should have at least three years of experience. After passing this test, the candidate will be subjected to a medical examination to determine whether or not they are physically fit and capable of dealing with emergencies. The final round is the interview, in which they are judged and assessed by a group of members before being chosen.

The rate of selection is extremely low. Few candidates make it to the selection round, and only two or three are chosen for the dream job. So, if you want to be an astronaut, be prepared to take one of the most difficult exams.

India's Universities

There are numerous universities in India that offer excellent education to students who aspire to be astronauts.

1. IIST (Indian Institute of Space science and research)
2. IISc( Indian Institute of Science)
3. Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai
4. BITS, Pilani( Birla Institute of Technology and Science)
5. Amity University

Industry of Aerospace

Certain agencies, such as the Canadian, Russian federal, and European space agencies, hire astronauts.

In addition, NASA in the United States is one of the best institutes, hiring 20 employees every two years.

Not only are astronauts eligible after studying these subjects, but there are many other departments as well. You can also apply for jobs in space research labs, military operations, government or national observatories, spacecraft manufacturing firms, and spacecraft software design.

An Astronaut's Salary

There are numerous benefits to being an astronaut. One of them is a comfortable lifestyle and a good salary. Once you get into centres like NASA and ISRO, there are several designations available, and your pay is determined by which one you hold.

Astronauts in India are paid on a commission basis for the fifth time. ISRO scientists, physicists, and engineers earn between Rs 42 lakh and Rs 92 lakh per year.

People in higher positions can expect to be paid between 2-3 lakhs per month. Salary is typically determined by a person's skills, experience, and accomplishments. Other amenities for a healthy and comfortable lifestyle are provided, such as medical services, travel allowance, insurance, and housing.

The Benefits of Becoming an Astronaut

• You can see how the Earth appears from space and observe various celestial events.
• Learn more about other planets and what they have to offer.
• You will be able to collaborate with the best scientists and talented individuals in the country.
• You can travel through space, using high-tech gadgets, land spacecraft, and missiles.

The Drawbacks of Becoming an Astronaut

• It's a dangerous job, and there's a chance you'll get lost in space.
• The duration of travel can sometimes be too long for stress and isolation.
• Muscle wasting and other health-related effects are possible.
• Need to be away from family and friends for an extended period of time.