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NASA opens astronaut applications through Dec. 3 for lunar, Mars work
NASA said astronaut applications close 11:59 p.m. EST Dec. 3, 2026, with a final selection expected in late 2027 for lunar and Mars training.
- The Guardian is now reporting this
- New headline Was: “NASA opens applications for next astronaut class through Dec. 3”
- Our desk updated its story
- New York Times is now reporting this
NASA said it is accepting applications for its next astronaut class through 11:59 p.m. EST on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, as it prepares crews for lunar operations, a planned Moon Base and later Mars missions2.
The agency posted the call as news release 26-093, dated Nov. 7. The Guardian reported the opening was announced Saturday during a Kennedy Space Center air show1,2.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said, "This is an extraordinary time to join NASA's astronaut corps"2.
NASA said it expects a final selection in late 2027 so the new class can begin astronaut-candidate training2.
The last application window opened in 2024; NASA said more than 8,000 people applied and 10 candidates were selected in 2025 and are in nearly two years of training2.
NASA said it has selected 370 people as astronaut candidates since the 1960s and that 32 astronauts are now active2.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and hold a master's degree in a STEM field, NASA said, or meet listed equivalents such as two years of doctoral work, specified medical degrees, or test-pilot school completed by July 2027 with a STEM bachelor's2.
NASA said candidates also need at least three years of related professional experience after the qualifying degree, with listed flight-hour alternatives for pilots and residency counting toward the requirement for medical doctors if completed by July 20272.
NASA said selected applicants would train in spacewalking, lunar geology and high-performance aircraft operations, among other skills2.
The agency said more information is at go.nasa.gov/astro20262.
