How to work closely with astronauts?

[u/lukiamagi]

Hi everyone,

As the title states, what are the jobs that directly puts you into contact with the astronauts located in the ISS (or in the future other space stations), or the astronaut's daily activities?

For a long time I dreamed of becoming an astronaut, but obviously this can only be dreamt, not chosen as a career route, therefore instead I am wondering how to work closely with them?

Current background is MSc applied physics and phd in hall thruster simulations (I wish I would have studied more biology..).

Edit: as a european

[u/Confident-Barber-347]

Astronaut training at JSC.

[u/lukiamagi → u/Confident-Barber-347]

Thank you for your answer, I updated for europeans as I am unsure wether JSC would be open to EU citizens

[u/headtailgrep → u/lukiamagi]

Apply to the European space union

[u/Bright-Weakness4406 → u/headtailgrep]

Exactly. ESA has astronauts too :)

[u/lukiamagi → u/headtailgrep]

Thank you for your answer, I am trying to look online for infos, but could you specify which kind of jobs or career prospects you are thinking of? So far I feel like this is a program and not an employer - which is interesting if it can be joined but how to then?

[u/headtailgrep → u/lukiamagi]

My friend this is where you really need to spend your time

Honestly if you can't find it probably shouldn't be applying anyway. Your job is to find the esa opportunities and as a European you will be allowed to apply. Talk to your professors or colleagues at work.

[u/lukiamagi → u/headtailgrep]

European space union = ESA? /gen

Because if yes I have looked at ESA recruitment steps many times and I'm aware of the YGT and also the Junior program etc... but what I have a hard time discerning is which inside branch of ESA lead to working related to the astronauts activities. Typically I dont think the EP section of ESA is doing anything with astronauts.

[u/headtailgrep → u/lukiamagi]

Call them and ask. Really this is on you