NASA opens recruitment for its next generation of astronauts
NASA has opened recruitment for its next astronaut class to support Artemis lunar missions and future Mars exploration. Applications are now being accepted through the agency's official channels. The selection targets candidates who will live and work on the Moon as part of the Artemis program. Multiple outlets confirm the application window is active as of November 11, 2026, with NASA's own announcement and major news organizations reporting the launch of the hiring drive.
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- ✓ NASA opened recruitment for its next generation of astronauts on November 11, 2026.
- ✓ The new astronaut class will support the Artemis program's lunar and Mars exploration goals.
- ✓ Applications are being accepted through NASA's official channels.
What changed
NASA officially opened the application period for its next astronaut candidate class on November 11, 2026, initiating a new selection cycle for Artemis-era missions.
Live updates
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NASA opens astronaut applications for Artemis Moon missions
NASA has opened recruitment for its next astronaut class to support Artemis lunar missions and future Mars exploration. Applications are now being accepted through the agency's official channels. The selection targets candidates who will live and work on the Moon as part of the Artemis program. Multiple outlets confirm the application window is active as of November 11, 2026, with NASA's own announcement and major news organizations reporting the launch of the hiring drive.
Why it matters
This recruitment cycle feeds directly into NASA's Artemis program, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon and prepare for crewed missions to Mars. The last astronaut class graduated in 2024; new selectees will train for long-duration lunar surface operations, Gateway station missions, and deep-space transit. Competition is historically intense, with acceptance rates below 1% in recent cycles.
What is confirmed
- NASA opened recruitment for its next generation of astronauts on November 11, 2026.
- The new astronaut class will support the Artemis program's lunar and Mars exploration goals.
- Applications are being accepted through NASA's official channels.
Still unconfirmed
- Candidates may need to endure extreme isolation training for up to 12 months.
- Strict eligibility criteria include specific STEM education and professional experience requirements.
What to watch next
- Application deadline announcement
- Number of applicants compared to previous cycles
- Announcement of selected candidates for astronaut candidate training
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (16)
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- The New York Times — NASA Is Selecting Future Astronauts. Here’s How to Apply.
- NASA (.gov) — NASA Seeks Next Generation of Explorers to Join Astronaut Corps
- The Washington Post — NASA opens recruitment for its next generation of astronauts
- NBC News — Want to fly to the moon? NASA is looking for new astronauts to help grow its Artemis program
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