How to Become an Astronaut after 12th: Career Guide, Courses, Eligibility, Top Colleges, Jobs, Skills, Salary

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Ahana Bhaduri

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An Astronaut is a highly trained professional who undertakes space travel for scientific research and exploration purposes. They study celestial bodies and advance our understanding of the universe. Aspiring candidates need to have a strong educational background in Engineering or Physics. They also must exhibit excellent physical fitness, mental resilience, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team. The journey to Becoming an Astronaut is demanding. It requires dedication and perseverance. It typically involves several years of education, training, and practical experience to meet the stringent qualifications set by space agencies. Aspirants undergo rigorous selection processes. Only a few candidates are chosen from a large pool of applicants. The highest Astronaut Salaries are offered by NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos. These salaries can range from approximately INR 60 lakhs to over INR 1.13 crores per year.

How to Become an Astronaut after 12th: Quick Facts

Eligibility Criteria

A strong educational background in science and engineering is essential.

Age between 18 and 35 years old.

Excellent physical health and fitness

Candidates must be citizens of the country where they apply to become an astronaut.

Skills Required

Critical Thinking, Teamwork Adaptability, Communication & Technical Knowledge

Starting Salary (INR) 8 LPA - 15 LPA
Average Salary (INR) 20 LPA - 40 LPA
Highest Salary (INR) 1 Crore & above

Eligibility to Become an Astronaut after 12th

The basic eligibility requirements for becoming an Astronaut, right from class 12 to postgraduate courses, along with entrance exams and other eligibility prerequisites are as follows.

  • Candidates should have completed their higher secondary education with a strong background in science, mathematics, and physics.
  • A bachelor's degree in engineering or in any other relevant field.
  • Candidates can appear for national-level engineering entrance exams like JEE.
  • Candidates must meet the specific physical fitness requirements set by the space agency.
  • Candidates must be citizens of the country where they are applying to become an astronaut.
  • Proficiency in the official language(s) of the space agency is typically required.
  • English is commonly used in international space programs.

Steps to Become an Astronaut after 12th

The steps to becoming an astronaut after 12th are listed below for your reference.

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related field.
  • Participate in activities that promote teamwork and problem-solving skills.
  • Seek internships in fields related to space exploration or aerospace engineering.
  • Engage in regular physical exercise to build strength, stamina, and overall fitness..
  • Identify the space agencies or programs you are interested in. The prominent space agencies include NASA, ESA, and ISRO.
  • Monitor the official websites of space agencies for astronaut recruitment announcements.
  • Submit applications for astronaut training programs or positions as per the agency's guidelines.
  • Prepare for rigorous selection tests, including medical evaluations, psychological assessments, and aptitude tests.
  • Successfully pass interviews and demonstrate your commitment, knowledge, and suitability for space exploration.
  • If selected, undergo extensive training programs that cover various aspects of space travel, including space science, technical skills, survival training, and simulations.
  • Work in fields related to space exploration, research, or engineering to further enhance your expertise.
  • Collaborate with space agencies on missions and projects, if possible.
  • Apply for specific space missions or assignments through the designated application process.
  • Continuously update your skills and stay informed about new opportunities.
  • Meet the medical and psychological standards necessary for space travel.
  • Be prepared for the physical and mental challenges that come with the astronaut's role.

Courses to Become an Astronaut after 12th

To become an astronaut, it is crucial to pursue relevant courses. After completing 12th grade, aspiring astronauts can consider the following courses:

Parameters Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Bachelor's Degree in Physics or Astronomy Bachelor's Degree in Space Science or Planetary Science
Duration 4 years 3 years 3 to 4 years
Eligibility Criteria Completed 12th with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as core subjects. Completed 10+2 education from a recognized board with a background in Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) Completed 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
Top Colleges Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) National Institutes of Technology (NITs) Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS Pilani) Delhi Technological University (DTU), and many more. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay St. Xavier's College, Mumbai Presidency College, Kolkata Loyola College, Chennai Delhi University, Delhi Jadavpur University, Kolkata Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bangalore Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune
Entrance Exams JEE Main and JEE Advanced for admission to IITs and NITs, BITSAT for BITS Pilani Joint Entrance Examination Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Aptitude Test All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Entrance Exam Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET) West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE) Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) IIST Admission Test (ISAT) SAT (for international students)
Average Course Fees (INR) 1,00,000 to 5,00,000 10,000 to 1,00,000 50,000 to 2,00,000
Average Salary (INR) 3 LPA - 8 LPA 3 LPA - 6 LPA 3 LPA - 7 LPA

Entrance Exams

The top entrance exams to become an astronaut are -

Entrance Exam Application Deadline Exam Date Result Declaration
IISER Aptitude Test April 1 – May 13, 2024 June 9, 2024 TBA
JEE Advanced April 27 – May 27, 2024 May 26, 2024 TBA
BITSAT

Session 1: Jan 14 – April 16, 2024

Session 2: May 22 – June 10, 2024

Session 1: May 20 – 24, 2024

Session 2: June 22 – 26, 2024

Session 1: TBA

Session 2: TBA

VITEEE (VIT Engineering Entrance Exam) Nov 1 – Apr 10, 2024 Apr 19 – 30, 2024 May 3, 2024

Top Astronaut Colleges

Here are some top colleges known for their programs and research in space science or related fields:

College Name Location Average Fees (INR)
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 1,50,000 - 2,00,000
Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, Karnataka 35,000 - 50,000
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay Mumbai, Maharashtra 2,00,000 - 2,50,000
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras Chennai, Tamil Nadu 2,00,000 - 2,50,000
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 2,00,000 - 2,50,000

Skills Required to Become an Astronaut after 12th

The essential skills to become an Astronaut are as follows -

Excellent Physical Fitness Strong Problem-Solving Abilities Adaptability
Critical Thinking Skills Effective Communication Skills Teamwork and Collaboration
Technical and Scientific Knowledge Resilience Emotional Stability

Benefits of Becoming an Astronaut after 12th

Every job comes with its own sets of perks and benefits. Listed below are some of the key benefits that are associated with becoming an Astronaut after 12th.

  • Opportunity to explore outer space and contribute to scientific discoveries
  • Chance to work with advanced technologies and cutting-edge research
  • Engaging in challenging and rewarding missions that push the boundaries of human capabilities
  • Exposure to international collaborations and interactions with astronauts from different countries
  • Personal growth and development through rigorous training programs
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Inspiring and influential role in inspiring future generations and promoting scientific curiosity
  • Sense of fulfilment and pride in being part of a select group of individuals who have travelled to space
  • Potential for career advancement and diverse opportunities within the space industry
  • Unique experiences that will last a lifetime.

Astronaut Salary

The average annual salary of an astronaut as per years of experience in the field is as given below -

Years of Experience Average Annual Salary (INR)
0 - 1 year 12 L
2 - 5 years 18 L
6 - 10 years 30 L
10 - 15 years 50 L
15 - 20 years 80 L
20 years and above 1 crore

How to Become an Astronaut after 12th: FAQs

Ques. What subjects should I study in 12th grade to become an astronaut?

Ans. Focus on science subjects like physics, chemistry, and mathematics to become an astronaut.

Ques. Do I need to pursue a specific degree to become an astronaut?

Ans. While there is no specific degree requirement, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as engineering, physical science, or biological science is beneficial.

Ques. Is there an age limit to become an astronaut?

Ans. The age limit for becoming an astronaut varies by space agency but generally falls between 27 and 37 years.

Ques. What physical fitness requirements are necessary to become an astronaut?

Ans. Astronaut candidates must meet specific physical fitness standards, including excellent cardiovascular health and good vision.

Ques. What skills are important to become an astronaut?

Ans. Some essential skills include -

  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Adaptability
  • Strong scientific and technical background.

Ques. What are the chances of becoming an astronaut?

Ans. The chances of becoming an astronaut are highly competitive, with a limited number of positions available. It requires dedication, perseverance, and meeting the rigorous selection criteria.

Ques. Can individuals with a military background become astronauts?

Ans. Many astronauts come from a military background, particularly from the air force. Military experience can provide valuable skills relevant to the challenges of space exploration. Space agencies often consider a combination of education, experience, skills, and personal qualities in the selection process for astronaut candidates.

Ques. Do astronauts receive special training for emergencies and spacewalks?

Ans. Yes, astronauts undergo extensive training in areas such as -

  • Emergency procedures
  • Survival skills
  • Spacewalk techniques

This is done to ensure their safety and ability to handle critical situations.

Ques. Are there opportunities for astronauts to conduct scientific research in space?

Ans. Yes, astronauts actively participate in scientific research while in space. They conduct experiments and gather data. This helps to contribute to various fields of study, such as biology, physics, and astronomy.

Ques. Can astronauts choose their missions or destinations in space?

Ans. Astronauts typically do not have control over mission assignments or destinations. These decisions are made by space agencies and are based on scientific objectives and program priorities.

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