NASA will start accepting astronaut job applications next month

HAVE you ever spent your time daydreaming about what life might be like if you were exploring the cosmos as an astronaut? Well, we have good news.

In this Feb. 12, 2001 photo released by the Science Channel, astronaut Robert L. Curbeam is pictured during a space walk. Curbeam is featured, along with other former astronauts on the Science Channel's series "Secret Space Escapes," premiering Nov. 10 at 10 p.m. ET. (NASA/Science Channel via AP)

HAVE you ever spent your time daydreaming about what life might be like if you were exploring the cosmos as an astronaut?

Well, you might soon be able to make that dream a reality thanks to NASA announcing it is seeking explorers for future space missions.

HELP WANTED: #BeAnAstronaut https://t.co/bK9K827gbS

— Scott Kelly (@StationCDRKelly) November 4, 2015

“This next group of American space explorers will inspire the Mars generation to reach for new heights, and help us realise the goal of putting boot prints on the Red Planet,” said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden.

“Those selected for this service will fly on US-made spacecraft from American soil, advance critical science and research aboard the International Space Station, and help push the boundaries of technology in the proving ground of deep space.”

Want to #BeAnAstronaut, but not sure you’re qualified? We’ve debunked a few myths for you: https://t.co/FV9QG7xuUF pic.twitter.com/ivqdZe1VNZ

— NASA (@NASA) November 4, 2015

If this sounds enticing and you are wondering if you have what it takes to be an astronaut, the criteria is actually pretty straight forward.

“Astronaut candidates must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics. An advanced degree is desirable,” NASA said in a statement.

“Candidates also must have at least three years of related, progressively responsible professional experience, or at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in jet aircraft.

“Astronaut candidates must pass the NASA long-duration spaceflight physical.”

The agency will accept applications from December 14 through to mid-February and expects to announce candidates selected in mid-2017.