NASA Is Selecting Future Astronauts. Here’s How to Apply.
NASA began accepting applications for its next astronaut class on Nov. 7, 2026, with a deadline of 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3. The agency plans to announce final selections in late 2027. Successful candidates will train for Artemis missions to the lunar surface, Moon base operations, and deep-space exploration. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and submit completed materials via USAJOBS. This is the first recruitment cycle since 2024.
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- ✓ NASA opened astronaut candidate applications on Nov. 7, 2026.
- ✓ The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3, 2026.
- ✓ Final selection is planned for late 2027.
- ✓ Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
What changed
NASA officially opened the application window on Nov. 7, 2026, setting a Dec. 3 deadline and targeting late 2027 for final selection.
Live updates
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NASA Opens Astronaut Applications Through Dec. 3 for Artemis Moon Missions
NASA began accepting applications for its next astronaut class on Nov. 7, 2026, with a deadline of 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3. The agency plans to announce final selections in late 2027. Successful candidates will train for Artemis missions to the lunar surface, Moon base operations, and deep-space exploration. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and submit completed materials via USAJOBS. This is the first recruitment cycle since 2024.
Why it matters
The new class will directly support the Artemis program's goal of establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon and preparing for Mars missions. NASA last selected astronaut candidates in 2021; that group graduated in 2024. The current opening reflects the agency's expanding flight manifest, including crewed lunar landings and Gateway space station assembly.
What is confirmed
- NASA opened astronaut candidate applications on Nov. 7, 2026.
- The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 3, 2026.
- Final selection is planned for late 2027.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- The new class will train for Artemis lunar missions and Moon base operations.
Still unconfirmed
- Some selected astronauts could live and work on the Moon for extended periods.
What to watch next
- Announcement of the number of applicants received
- Details on any changes to medical or educational requirements
- Schedule for interview and evaluation phases in 2027
confidence 92%Sources used for this update (13)
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- AP News — Want to fly to the moon? NASA is looking for new astronauts to help grow its Artemis program
- NASA (.gov) — NASA Seeks Next Generation of Explorers to Join Astronaut Corps
- FOX 10 Phoenix — Future astronauts wanted: NASA opens recruitment for moon missions
- WRAL — Want to be an astronaut? NASA is accepting applications for its next class
- dnyuz.com — NASA Is Selecting Future Astronauts. Here’s How to Apply.
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- nasawatch.com — NASA Astronaut Applications Open for Next Class, Due Dec. 3
- www.cbsnews.com — NASA is hiring astronaut candidates. Some could "live and ...
- www.unilad.com — NASA opens applications for Americans who could become the next people to walk on the Moon
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