Some astronauts are attracted to the career out of the desire to understand the science of space. Others are fascinated by the idea of space travel itself. If you find yourself drawn to the mechanics of flying in space, an aeronautics degree may be of particular interest to you.
Astronomy
Astronomy is an ideal undergraduate major for students who are fascinated by space. Even if you do not go on to become an astronaut, there are many interesting and lucrative career paths for astronomers. The majority of astronomers work in higher education or in research and development, and the BLS predicts an 8 percent job growthin the next 10 ye.
Atmospheric Science
Atmospheric science is the study of the atmosphere, weather, climate, and other environmental topics. This degree can lead you to a number of important career paths, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 30 percentof atmospheric scientists work for the federal government. This degree can be a great step toward becoming an astronaut becau.
Biology
Biology is one of the most popular undergraduate science majors because it provides such a valuable foundation for graduate studies. Many of the other science majors focus on the study of the earth or matter, but biology is the study of life. If you’re most interested in the science behind animals, plants, and human beings, biology could be a great.
Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering is one of the most relevant college majors for astronauts. It’s a challenging program, but it equips you with so many of the skills needed for your career goals. Over the course of your electrical engineering degree, you’ll learn how to design, develop, and maintain electrical equipment.
Geology
If you’re interested in earth sciences, geology can be a valuable undergraduate degree. Harrison Schmitt, one of 12 people to walk on the moon, is a geologist. While some other programs focus on the mathematics and physics behind space travel, a geology background helps you understand the physical structure of the earth and of other planets and sat.
How many people apply to be an astronaut?
The term “astronaut” derives from the Greek words meaning “star sailor.” More than 12 000 people applied to be an astronaut between March 2 and March 31 2020. NASA accepts applications for the Astronaut Candidate Program on an as-needed basis. In recent years New astronaut candidates have been selected approximately every four years.
Mathematics
Most of the degree programs for astronauts heavily involve mathematics. If math is your passion, you can select it as your undergraduate major. While a bachelor’s in mathematics isn’t enough on its own to become an astronaut, it does prepare you for a graduate degree in physics, astronomy, or another related subject.
Mechanical Engineering
Just like electrical engineering, a mechanical engineering degree provides a wealth of information that can benefit you as an aspiring astronaut. While electrical engineers are experts on the electronic and technological aspects of engineering, mechanical engineers focus on the physical components of complex systems.
Physics
Physics is a broad field, but it involves the study of matter and energy. Physicists aim to understand how the world is structured and how everything moves around in time and space. Astronauts need an extensive understanding of these ideas to prepare for and complete space missions, so physicists are valuable members of NASA’s team.
Should you study astrophysics if you want to be an astronaut?
If you’re interested in becoming an astronaut An astrophysics degree could be especially useful. Astronomy is one of the more obvious degree choices for prospective astronauts. If you want to go into space Studying space is the best way to reach that goal.
What qualifications do you need to be an astronaut?
Astronaut requirements have changed with NASA’s goals and missions. Today To be considered for an astronaut position Applicants must meet the following qualifications: Possess a master’s degree* in a STEM field Biological science Physical science Computer science or mathematics From an accredited institution.
Which physics major is best for astronauts?
Many undergraduate physics majors go on to specialize in highly technical topics as graduate students. As an aspiring astronaut A master’s degree in astrophysics could be especially useful. The first year or two of a bachelor’s degree in physics usually includes And some general physics classes.
Can astronauts be astrophysicists?
Developing the astronaut skill set is somewhat tangential to being an astrophysicist, but if you’re passionate about it, you can do it
At all points along the way, it’s not about getting a grade or competing with your classmates, but what you learn, what you accomplish, and what you can demonstrably do as a result
What do astronauts do on the Space Station?
Astronauts on the station conduct scientific experiments such as innovative cancer research and research on the human body and living in space
The agency’s commercial partners are beginning to transport cargo from Earth to the space station, and they will soon be launching astronauts to and from the station as well
Why is astrophysics important?
Understanding the nature of the Universe, simulating the past and the future, determining the properties of galaxies, stars, cosmic microwave background – all of this is astrophysics
The birth of astrophysics came with the development of astronomical spectroscopy and photography in the second half of 19th century
Astrophysics astronaut
Medical physicist and NASA astronaut candidate
Christopher Leigh Williams is an American medical physicist and NASA astronaut candidate.He resides in Boston
George Driver Pinky Nelson is an American physicist
American physicist, astronomer, and retired NASA astronaut
George Driver Pinky Nelson is an American physicist
Astronomer
Science educator
And retired NASA astronaut.
Steven Glenwood MacLean is a retired Canadian astronaut
Canadian astronaut (born 1953)
Steven Glenwood MacLean is a retired Canadian astronaut.He was the president of the Canadian Space Agency
