NASA is seeking candidates who could live and work on the Moon and help build a base under the Artemis program. According to Diken’s report citing the Guardian, the selection process covers people who, in addition to lunar missions, could also take on roles in the systems and operations that will carry crews to Mars in the future.
The report says NASA wants to select successful candidates to help build a base on the Moon. The scope of the listing therefore goes beyond simply reaching the lunar surface; it also includes duties involving living and working there.
In the statement reported by Diken, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman says those selected could walk on the Moon and live and work at a lunar base. Isaacman also says they could lead the systems and operations that will carry crews to Mars. The statement presents the Mars-related role as a possibility.
The requirements published by Diken include a master’s degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics; a medical qualification; pilot training or two years of study in a relevant doctoral program. The list also includes professional experience, specified flight hours and US citizenship. The application therefore involves practical experience as well as education. The report lists the education and experience requirements as follows:
The listing reported by Diken gives the application deadline as Thursday, December 3.
The last crewed lunar mission was Apollo 17, which landed on the Moon in December 1972 and returned to Earth at the end of the same month. A total of 24 astronauts traveled to the Moon; 12 of them walked on the lunar surface during the Apollo program.Key details in the listing
Roles in building a lunar base and preparing for Mars
What requirements are reported for prospective applicants?
Questions about applications and lunar missions
When is the application deadline?
What was the last crewed mission to the Moon?