Who wants to be an astronaut? More than 12,000 people, according to NASA. The space agency said Wednesday that Americans from all 50 states, the capital and four territories showed up in the month-long application deadline that ended Tuesday.
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said the next generation of astronauts will explore the Moon and open the way to Mars.
“We are excited to see so many amazing Americans running to join us,” Bridenstine said in a statement.
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The applicants record was 18,300 in 2017. Of those, 12 were selected. This time the requirements were stricter, and included a master’s degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
The number of astronauts chosen will depend on the mission’s requirements and the number of flights, spokeswoman Brandi Dean said. NASA currently has 48 astronauts.
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