The job of an astronaut is a very challenging one. An astronaut gets to travel to space, which is just a dream for most but there is risk of endangering one’s life as well. An astronaut has to be very good in Maths and Physics. Though you can work in ISRO in India, scope is limited and the dream company for astronauts all over the world is NASA.
How to reach your goalStep 1: You need to take up science after Class 10 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as core subjects.
Step 2: Do your bachelors in either Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology or Aerospace Engineering
Step 3: You have to achieve good grades in your undergraduate degree so that you can do your postgraduate and eventually a doctorate.
Step 4: To be a mission specialist you also require 3 years of related and progressively responsible professional experience.
Step 5: After graduation, you can appear for the entrance exam which is held by the NASA for the recruitment of Scientists and Astronauts.
Do you have it in you- You need to be in top physical condition and have great stamina and mental strength
- Good communication skills – knowledge of a foreign language would be an asset
- Brilliant academic career at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels
- Good team player
- Strong mathematical skills
- Ability to handle psychological pressure
- Ability to work in cramped environment
- Should meet the height standards
Pros and Cons of an AstronautPros- Chance to live in space where very few have had the luck
- Once in a lifetime opportunity – mother of all adventures
- Resolving the mysteries of space
Cons- Huge risk factor – even after all the training there can be a chance of risking human lives who travel to space
- Might have to encounter some micro-organisms or extra terrestrial objects which could prove harmful to the humans
- Extremely stressful training and one has hardly any family life
PerksThe following perks are for astronauts who work in NASA
LEVEL 1 Astronaut Trainee
EARNINGS $83,000 to $92,000 a year
LEVEL 2 Working Astronaut
EARNINGS $92,000 to $114,000 a year
LEVEL 3 Senior Astronaut
EARNINGS $114,000 to $163,000 a year
Where Can You WorkIn India, after graduation, the candidates can appear for the entrance exam which is held by the NASA for the recruitment of Scientists, Astronauts. Candidates can also find employment in ISRO. There are many openings in ISRO which is conducted for the recruitment of Scientists and Engineers. In order to join the ISRO, the candidates need to clear the Joint Entrance Exam set by the IIT’s.
