Nasa is looking for next-gen astronauts who will live and work on the Moon

From a master's degree to medical and flight requirements, here's what it takes to join Nasa's next generation of astronauts.An image of an astronaut working on what seems like the lunar surface. (Photo: Nasa)New Delhi,Nov 12, 2026 10:18 ISTNasa has opened applications for a new generation of astronauts who could help establish a permanent human presence on the Moon, marking another step in its plans to move beyond short visits and build a base on the lunar surface.The US space agency is looking for candidates who could eventually live and work at its planned Moon Base, support missions under its Artemis programme and help develop the technology and experience needed to send humans to Mars.Nasa said the next class of astronauts would train for increasingly challenging missions, including operations on the lunar surface. A concept art of a vehicle and a astronaut on the Moon's surface. (Photo: Nasa) The agency expects to announce its final selections in late 2027. WHAT IS NASA'S MOON BASE PROJECT?Nasa's Moon Base ambition is part of a broader effort to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon, rather than sending astronauts for brief visits and bringing them straight back to Earth.Through its Artemis programme, the agency plans to return astronauts to the lunar surface, explore areas around the Moon's south pole and gradually develop the facilities needed for longer stays. No aim too high. No journey too far. No terrain too challenging. We’re going back to the Moon. This time, to stay. https://t.co/9KvAp1aISd— NASA Moon Base (@NASAMoonBase) September 8, 2026The proposed base is expected to take shape through a combination of living and working spaces, power systems, vehicles and robotic equipment.These would help astronauts conduct scientific research, explore the surrounding terrain and operate on the Moon for extended periods.The lunar south pole is particularly important because scientists believe some permanently shadowed areas contain water ice. This could eventually support future exploration by providing resources such as drinking water and oxygen.Nasa's longer-term goal is to use the experience gained on the Moon to prepare for human missions to Mars. An image of the Moon taken in space with the Earth in the background. (Photo: Nasa) WHEN WILL NASA RETURN TO THE MOON?Nasa is targeting 2028 for the return of astronauts to the lunar surface under its Artemis programme. The missions are expected to build the foundation for a longer-term human presence.The agency is also working with private companies, including SpaceX and Blue Origin, which are developing spacecraft and lunar landing systems to support its ambitions.However, establishing a functioning Moon Base will take considerably longer than completing an initial crewed landing.It will require repeated missions and the gradual development of equipment and infrastructure that can support astronauts away from Earth. An artist's concept shows astronauts working on the Moon. (Photo: Nasa) WHO CAN APPLY TO BECOME AN ASTRONAUT?The recruitment drive is open only to US citizens. Applicants must have a master's degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics, along with at least three years of relevant professional experience.Medical qualifications and certain doctoral or test-pilot training pathways can also meet the education requirement.Pilots must meet specific flight-hour requirements, while all candidates must pass Nasa's medical examination for long-duration spaceflight.The agency will assess applicants for leadership, teamwork and communication skills alongside their professional qualifications.Clean room access unlocked. From @blueorigin and @fireflyspace to @Int_Machines and @voyagertech_, here’s an update on the commercial spacecraft that will deliver @NASA science and technology to the Moon, paving the way for humanity's first Moon Base. https://t.co/6FgJPHXTdW— NASA Moon Base (@NASAMoonBase) August 4, 2026Those selected will undergo nearly two years of initial training at Nasa's Johnson Space Center in Houston. The training includes spacewalking, operating spacecraft, flying aircraft and learning to use robotic equipment.The next astronaut class could eventually help take humanity's return to the Moon from a series of missions to a sustained presence beyond Earth.Applications are open until 10:29 am IST on December 4.- Ends