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Astronaut

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.

Astronaut

19

Engineering and Technology

AI IMPACT
AI EXPOSURE TODAY19
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST64%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £50,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

This job holds up well against AI
AI exposure today is low on our index (19), and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.

The role

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.

Daily responsibilities

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

Does a degree help here?

A UK education provides a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which are crucial for a career in space exploration. With access to world-class universities and research facilities, UK graduates are well-prepared for the rigorous training and challenges of becoming an astronaut.