Wanna Be An Astronaut? Now’s Your Chance

You don’t get to hear this often: not only does a job opening exist, but it’s for perhaps the coolest job any human can or ever will have: exploring space. NASA’s opening its next astronaut class, live, right here.

The new recruits, should you be selected to represent our species in the vacuum, will work on the ISS, as well as “missions of exploration far away from our planet”. Mars! Of course, money’s a little tight right now, so don’t expect to breeze by Phobos anytime soon, but this is a rare opportunity to be what you always wanted to be as a little kid. Watch the stream, get that resume in shape, make sure you can crank out some push-ups, and dream about space with us.

Also, check out what it takes to be considered for employment in space. Spoiler: you probably aren’t qualified.

The pay seems OK, ($US64,724 to $US141,715 a year), but considering you need to be in incredible shape, extremely smart and constantly risk exploding in the atmosphere, maybe a little on the low end?

Other interesting things to keep in mind before requiring:

• You can be short — but not tall. The minimum height is 157cm, but it maxes out at 190cm. Which makes sense, really — you don’t want some lanky giant bouncing around the ISS.
• Drug testing is required (bummer).
• “1000 hours pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft” is a must, so, yeah, you better get on that soon.
• Most important demand? “Frequent travel may be required.” Yes, frequent travel to outer space.

If you think you’re up for the job, apply at USA Jobs by January 27. Thanks for letting me get that dumb degree in philosophy mum and dad. UGH. [NASA]