The Artemis program envisions returning the United States to the lunar surface and establishing a permanent base there. New crew members will be required to master spacewalks and study the geology of Earth's satellite, which will later serve as the foundation for preparing Mars expeditions.

Candidate Requirements

Only citizens of the United States may apply. The agency, founded in 1958, has established strict selection criteria regarding education and professional experience.

  • A master's degree in engineering, biology, physical, or computer sciences
  • At least three years of professional experience after obtaining qualifications
  • Medical fitness for long-duration spaceflights

Candidates with a doctoral degree, training from test pilot schools, or specific medical qualifications will also be considered.

Selection Timeline

  1. December 3, 2026

    application deadline

  2. Late 2027

    planned approval of the final astronaut list