Global Career Guide (EN)From Engineering and Technology

Astronaut

AI

Astronauts travel to space to carry out scientific research, conduct experiments and explore. They train for years to operate spacecraft, live in extreme conditions and work in zero gravity. It's a rare career that takes years of hard work in science, maths and physical training to achieve.

The role

What an astronaut actually does, day to day.

As an astronaut, you work in one of the most challenging and extraordinary environments on Earth - space. You train for years to operate spacecraft, conduct scientific experiments, repair equipment in zero gravity, and live in a space station far above Earth. You'll work on research that helps us understand space, develop new medicines, or improve life back on the ground.

The path to becoming an astronaut is long and competitive. You'll need strong qualifications in science, maths, physics or engineering, good health, and the determination to keep going through rigorous training. But if you have the passion for space and science, and you're willing to work hard, you can get there. Many astronauts say the moment they look back at Earth from space makes every bit of the hard work worth it.

A typical week

Day to day

1Train in simulators to practise operating spacecraft systems and handling emergencies.
2Take part in physical fitness sessions to stay in top condition for space travel.
3Study spacecraft manuals and learn how every system works in detail.
4Run scientific experiments and record the results carefully.
5Practise spacewalks and repairs using underwater training pools.
6Work with engineers and scientists to plan upcoming missions.
7Learn languages and skills needed to work with international space crews.