Q&A for How to Become an Astronaut

At your age, there's nothing you need to do yet, unless you haven't yet learned how to swim - then you should get started on that. Work on getting good at swimming, and try to do well in school.

NASA has no age limits, but past astronauts have typically fallen between 26 to 46 years old.

Be in top shape, and definitely make sure you're okay with things like spinning, turning upside down, basically all the thrill rides at an amusement park. That, and being properly qualified.

No. It's very difficult to become an astronaut.

Fixing and upgrading the space station, researching how matter interacts in space, finding new planets, monitoring Earth, monitoring and using telecommunications, preparing for the human colonization of mars, and creating new technology. Basically, astronauts do a whole lot of different research depending on what is needed for the space mission.

You don't have to be first, but it is important to be really good academically in high school.

As astronauts perform research and tests when in space, an astronomy major may be useful.

Yes of course, it is a degree in the sciences. You could also further your degree for your chosen research field. Then apply for training as an astronaut.

Get a bachelor's degree in engineering, biological sciences physical sciences or mathematics from an accredited college or in university. Then proceed to masters and a PhD in the field you chose.

Any STEM majors work. Engineering technology and medical lab sciences are unfortunately disqualified.

The only language you have to know is English, but learning Russian will be very helpful.

Yes, that should be fine.

Become a scholar then. You really already know that from the fact that you asked the question. You need to know mathematics, sciences, communications and the like. You need to be self-disciplined, which is something studying instills. You need to be able to work out complex problems. You need to be a good communicator. You must work hard for a dream as big as this one.

If you can find a local public pool, you can always practice there. You can also sign up for swimming classes at your local community center or college as well.

Yes, is long as your vision can be corrected to be at least 20/20.

You need to have worked with planes somewhere before but if you haven't, don't be expecting to be jumping on an aircraft just like that. Try contacting places where they hire people for that or pay (a lot) for flying training.

No, but learning about flight in the military gives you more experience with G-resistance and piloting.

It is preferred that you have a PhD in the sciences, but an electrical engineer can still work at the ESA or working with rockets for NASA.

Astronauts are expected to be healthy and fit as they aren't able to access medical care while in space, so no, you would likely not be able to be an astronaut with cancer.

You could train to become an employee at NASA, like someone in charge of launch procedures. You could also become an aeronautics engineer to design better spacecrafts, or get involved in more indirect ways like by becoming a chemist and making lighter, heat resistant, stronger alloys.

No, but it is helpful, especially if you want to be a pilot. Being an astronaut in general requires great physical and mental strength that the military helps develop.

No, it's not.

Since Nigeria does not have a space program, you would have to work in a country that does or perhaps become a famous scientist who could go to do some experiments. You could also get rich enough to pay for a trip to space for yourself but there are many hold-ups with this process.

People come to being an astronaut through various different studies, and computer engineer is a good choice. Being Indian is of no consequence, we are all equal. The eyesight issues are a big problem, though. If you can get surgery to get it fixed, definitely do that, but it still might not be enough. They need the very best people for the astronaut positions, and there are many more candidates than positions. There's always a chance, obviously. Learn Russian, master diving, and get your pilot's license; learn mathematics, aerodynamics, and physics in general. Be kind, calm and social, be a confident leader. But be prepared to be disappointed.

No. You need to have a strong math and science background, and most likely should focus on it in college, as well.

Sadly, there is no New Zealand Space Agency or one in Australia either. You can move to America or Europe and try.

Architecture wouldn't be directly beneficial, but you will probably learn math, physics, and engineering along the way, which is good. It might be tougher for someone with your major to find relevant work experience - but you may be able to do it if you really express your passion and determination about pursuing the new field.

You won't be able to become an astronaut with bad vision. Try a career as a scientist in the ESA or NASA, and research in your chosen field of knowledge.

Probably. You may want to start taking medicine from now until physical exams (with a doctor's permission of course) so that the flight doctors can clear you as fit for training or flying. The main concern would be if your condition would interfere with your duties and functionality as an astronaut.

It really all depends on the college you attend as that is the major cost of becoming an astronaut. The cost of colleges and universities can vary.