• So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Now You Can

  • By: Quiet.Please
  • Podcast
So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Now You Can cover art

So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Now You Can

By: Quiet.Please
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • Introduction In a world where humans have conquered the skies, dived to the deepest depths of the oceans, and even set foot on the moon, there remains one final frontier that continues to captivate our imaginations: space. For centuries, we have gazed up at the stars, wondering what lies beyond our own planet. And for a select few, the dream of exploring the cosmos and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge has become a reality. Enter NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the United States' very own gateway to the stars. This legendary institution has been at the forefront of space exploration since its inception in 1958, sending brave men and women on incredible journeys that have changed the course of history. From the iconic Apollo missions that landed humans on the moon to the groundbreaking Hubble Space Telescope that has given us a glimpse into the furthest reaches of the universe, NASA has been there every step of the way. But what does it take to become a part of this elite group of space explorers? How does one go from being an ordinary earthling to donning a space suit and blasting off into the great unknown? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a wild ride through the world of NASA's astronaut selection process. Chapter 1: So You Want to Be an Astronaut? First things first, let's get one thing straight: becoming an astronaut is not for the faint of heart. It takes a special kind of person to willingly strap themselves to a rocket and blast off into the cold, unforgiving vacuum of space. But if you're reading this, chances are you've already got that adventurous spirit coursing through your veins. So, what does it take to catch NASA's eye? Well, for starters, you'll need to be a U.S. citizen. Sorry, folks from other countries, but this is an American space party, and you're not invited. But don't worry, there are plenty of other space agencies out there that would be happy to have you. Next up, you'll need a master's degree in a STEM field. That's science, technology, engineering, or mathematics for those of you who slept through high school. And we're not talking about a master's degree in underwater basket weaving or interpretive dance. NASA wants the cream of the crop, the best and the brightest minds in their respective fields. But a fancy degree alone won't cut it. You'll also need at least two years of related professional experience or 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft. Because apparently, flying a jet is similar to flying a spacecraft. Who knew? And last but certainly not least, you'll need to pass NASA's long-duration spaceflight physical. This isn't your average doctor's check-up, folks. We're talking about a grueling series of tests that will push your body to its limits. From spinning in centrifuges to being poked and prodded in places you didn't even know existed, NASA wants to make sure you have what it takes to survive in the harsh environment of space. But don't let all of these requirements scare you off. If you've got the brains, the brawn, and the bravery, then you might just have what it takes to become an astronaut. Chapter 2: The Application Process So, you've decided to take the plunge and apply to become an astronaut. Congratulations! You're officially one step closer to fulfilling your childhood dreams. But before you start packing your bags for the International Space Station, there are a few things you'll need to do first. The first step in the application process is to fill out a lengthy online application. And when we say lengthy, we mean it. This isn't your average job application where you list your work experience and hope for the best. No, this application will delve into every aspect of your life, from your education and work history to your hobbies and personal interests. But don't worry, NASA isn't just interested in your academic achievements. They also want to know what makes you tick as a person. Are you a team player? Can you handle stress and pressure? Do you have any weird quirks or habits that might make your crewmates want to eject you out of the airlock? These are all important things that NASA needs to know. Once you've filled out the application and hit submit, the waiting game begins. And trust us, it's a long one. NASA receives thousands of applications from hopeful astronauts every year, and only a small fraction of them will make it through to the next round. But if you're one of the lucky few who does get a call back, congratulations! You're officially one step closer to becoming an astronaut. The next step in the process is a series of interviews and medical exams that will determine if you have what it takes to be a space explorer. During the interviews, NASA will grill you on everything from your technical knowledge to your ability to handle stress and work as part of a team. They'll also want to know why you want to become an astronaut and what you hope to accomplish during your time ...
    copyright 2024 Quietr.Please
    Show More Show Less
Episodes
  • So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Well Now You Can

    So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Well Now You Can
    Mar 5 2024
    Introduction In a world where humans have conquered the skies, dived to the deepest depths of the oceans, and even set foot on the moon, there remains one final frontier that continues to captivate our imaginations: space. For centuries, we have gazed up at the stars, wondering what lies beyond our own planet. And for a select few, the dream of exploring the cosmos and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge has become a reality. Enter NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the United States' very own gateway to the stars. This legendary institution has been at the forefront of space exploration since its inception in 1958, sending brave men and women on incredible journeys that have changed the course of history. From the iconic Apollo missions that landed humans on the moon to the groundbreaking Hubble Space Telescope that has given us a glimpse into the furthest reaches of the universe, NASA has been there every step of the way. But what does it take to become a part of this elite group of space explorers? How does one go from being an ordinary earthling to donning a space suit and blasting off into the great unknown? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a wild ride through the world of NASA's astronaut selection process. Chapter 1: So You Want to Be an Astronaut? First things first, let's get one thing straight: becoming an astronaut is not for the faint of heart. It takes a special kind of person to willingly strap themselves to a rocket and blast off into the cold, unforgiving vacuum of space. But if you're reading this, chances are you've already got that adventurous spirit coursing through your veins. So, what does it take to catch NASA's eye? Well, for starters, you'll need to be a U.S. citizen. Sorry, folks from other countries, but this is an American space party, and you're not invited. But don't worry, there are plenty of other space agencies out there that would be happy to have you. Next up, you'll need a master's degree in a STEM field. That's science, technology, engineering, or mathematics for those of you who slept through high school. And we're not talking about a master's degree in underwater basket weaving or interpretive dance. NASA wants the cream of the crop, the best and the brightest minds in their respective fields. But a fancy degree alone won't cut it. You'll also need at least two years of related professional experience or 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft. Because apparently, flying a jet is similar to flying a spacecraft. Who knew? And last but certainly not least, you'll need to pass NASA's long-duration spaceflight physical. This isn't your average doctor's check-up, folks. We're talking about a grueling series of tests that will push your body to its limits. From spinning in centrifuges to being poked and prodded in places you didn't even know existed, NASA wants to make sure you have what it takes to survive in the harsh environment of space. But don't let all of these requirements scare you off. If you've got the brains, the brawn, and the bravery, then you might just have what it takes to become an astronaut. Chapter 2: The Application Process So, you've decided to take the plunge and apply to become an astronaut. Congratulations! You're officially one step closer to fulfilling your childhood dreams. But before you start packing your bags for the International Space Station, there are a few things you'll need to do first. The first step in the application process is to fill out a lengthy online application. And when we say lengthy, we mean it. This isn't your average job application where you list your work experience and hope for the best. No, this application will delve into every aspect of your life, from your education and work history to your hobbies and personal interests. But don't worry, NASA isn't just interested in your academic achievements. They also want to know what makes you tick as a person. Are you a team player? Can you handle stress and pressure? Do you have any weird quirks or habits that might make your crewmates want to eject you out of the airlock? These are all important things that NASA needs to know. Once you've filled out the application and hit submit, the waiting game begins. And trust us, it's a long one. NASA receives thousands of applications from hopeful astronauts every year, and only a small fraction of them will make it through to the next round. But if you're one of the lucky few who does get a call back, congratulations! You're officially one step closer to becoming an astronaut. The next step in the process is a series of interviews and medical exams that will determine if you have what it takes to be a space explorer. During the interviews, NASA will grill you on everything from your technical knowledge to your ability to handle stress and work as part of a team. They'll also want to know why you want to become an astronaut and what you hope to accomplish during your time ...
    Show More Show Less
    14 mins
Political Science
Show More Show Less

What listeners say about So You Want To Be an Astronaut? Now You Can

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.com.au reviews

Amazon Reviews
No Reviews are Available
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.