As ranks thin, NASA seeks to bolster its astronaut corps

NASA is looking for a few men and women with the right stuff. (credit: NASA)

With its eyes set on deep space exploration, NASA will soon begin seeking applications from would-be astronauts. The space agency says it needs to bulk up its depleted roster of astronauts for missions to the International Space Station as well as into cislunar space and beyond. Despite uncertain prospects for the future of NASA’s human exploration program, expect a torrent of applications.

The last time NASA solicited applicants four years ago, 6,372 US citizens responded. That was nearly double the average number during the space shuttle era, when typically about 3,500 people would apply each time. From the more than 6,000 applicants, NASA eventually chose four men and four women in 2013. That group has now completed their training and progressed from being ascans (a delightful abbreviation for astronaut candidates that is pronounced just like you hope it is) to joining the ranks of experienced fliers ready for assignment.

Ironically, NASA’s astronaut applications are up as its flight opportunities have fallen by about 90 percent. Back in the early 2000s during the peak of the space shuttle program, NASA had more than 150 active astronauts. That’s because the shuttle afforded 40 to 50 flights a year into space. But since the shuttle’s retirement in 2011, the number of active-duty astronauts has dwindled to only 47 now as veterans have sensed a lack of opportunities and retired.

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