How much do NASA astronauts earn? Know perks and benefits of astronauts like Sunita Williams

Whenever we talk about space, the name Sunita Williams often comes to mind. The Indian-origin astronaut has been in the spotlight for quite some time. On June 5, Sunita Williams, along with fellow American astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore, embarked on a mission to space aboard the International Space Station (ISS). NASA is expected to bring them back to Earth by February 2025. A career as an astronaut is both exciting and challenging, requiring exceptional skills and determination. If you aspire to become a NASA astronaut, here is a guide on the qualifications, selection process, and salary details.

Astronaut Salary

According to reports, NASA astronauts are paid based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale used for U.S. federal civilian employees. As per the 2024 GS rates, salaries range between USD 84,365 (Rs. 70,79,910) to USD 115,079 (Rs. 96,57,429) annually. However, NASA’s official website lists the 2024 astronaut salary as USD 152,258 (Rs. 1,27,75,968.78) per year.

NASA astronauts with military backgrounds follow a different salary structure since they remain on active duty while being assigned to the space agency for a set duration. According to NASA, these astronaut candidates are “detailed to the Johnson Space Center and remain in an active-duty status for pay, benefits, leave, and other similar military matters.”

Military astronauts are typically recruited at officer levels as they must meet specific criteria, such as years of service and flying experience.

As per Space Impulse, U.S. Navy Commander Matthew Dominick, serving since 2020, reportedly earns USD 8,199.60 (approximately Rs. 6,87,452) per month, based on Federal Pay rates. Meanwhile, Brigadier General Raja Chari of the U.S. Air Force, promoted in 2023, is estimated to receive USD 10,638.90 (around Rs. 8,92,033) monthly, excluding benefits like healthcare, insurance, and pensions.

Sunita Williams, a retired U.S. Navy Captain, is believed to be compensated in line with NASA’s 2024 pay structure for astronauts, according to various media sources.

Although NASA astronauts receive symbolic travel allowances, they do not earn substantial bonuses for participating in space missions.

Qualifications to Become an Astronaut at NASA

To become an astronaut at NASA, you must have a master’s degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) from an accredited institution. The qualifying subjects include engineering, biological sciences, physical sciences, computer science, or mathematics.

In addition to the degree, candidates must have at least three years of relevant professional experience or 1,000 hours as a pilot-in-command of a jet aircraft.

Essential Skills for Becoming an Astronaut

Astronaut candidates need to possess strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Additionally, they must complete NASA’s rigorous physical fitness tests required for long-duration space flights. While these requirements are challenging, they can be accomplished with perseverance, patience, and understanding.

NASA’s Selection Process

1. Application Review by the Selection Board: NASA’s Astronaut Selection Board carefully evaluates each applicant’s qualifications and experience. From this evaluation, the board shortlists the most highly qualified candidates.
2. First Round of Interviews:The shortlisted candidates are invited for an initial interview at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
3. Second Round of Interviews: Approximately half of the candidates who pass the first round are invited back for a second interview. After this stage, NASA selects a final group of astronaut candidates.

Two Years of Training

Once selected, astronaut candidates undergo two years of intensive training to develop essential skills. The training includes:

• Spacewalking techniques
• Operating the International Space Station
• Flying T-38 jet aircraft
• Controlling robotic arms used in space missions

By the end of this training period, candidates are fully prepared to embark on their journey as astronauts.