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CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Astronaut

An Astronaut is a trained professional who travels into space to conduct scientific research, test new technologies, and support space exploration missions. Although Pakistan does not yet have its own human spaceflight program, aspiring astronauts can work with international organizations like NASA, ESA, or the Chinese space program (CNSA) through global collaborations. SUPARCO (Pakistan’s space agency) provides a foundation for space sciences and satellite technology research

On The Job You Would:

<ul> <li>Operate spacecraft and space stations.</li> <li>Conduct scientific experiments in space.</li> <li>Test and repair spacecraft equipment.</li> <li>Collect samples and data for Earth and space sciences.</li> <li>Perform spacewalks and technical maintenance.</li> <li>Work with international teams for space missions.</li> </ul>

Knowledge
  • Space science and astronomy
  • Aerospace engineering and spacecraft systems
  • Physics and mathematics
  • Biology and medicine (human survival in space)
  • Robotics and computer systems
  • Geology and planetary sciences
Skills
  • Problem-solving under extreme conditions
  • Technical and engineering expertise
  • Strong physical and mental endurance
  • Scientific research and data analysis
  • Teamwork and leadership in high-pressure environments
  • Navigation and piloting skills
Abilities
  • Operate advanced spacecraft technology
  • Perform tasks in microgravity and space environments
  • Adapt quickly to challenging situations
  • Maintain peak physical fitness
  • Handle isolation and long-duration missions
Personality
  • Brave and adventurous
  • Highly disciplined and focused
  • Team-oriented and cooperative
  • Innovative and curious
  • Resilient under pressure
Technology
  • Spacecraft and space station systems
  • Robotics and AI-controlled machines
  • Navigation and communication systems
  • Life support and survival equipment
  • Scientific tools for astronomy, geology, and biology
Entry Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or related sciences
  • Master’s/PhD for advanced research and selection in international programs
  • Military pilots or experienced engineers often preferred
  • Excellent health and fitness (strict medical tests)
  • Fluency in English and sometimes Russian/Chinese (for international missions)
Job Outlook
  • No astronaut program currently in Pakistan.
  • Opportunities possible through international collaborations (NASA, ESA, CNSA).
  • Growing interest in space exploration may create future opportunities in Pakistan via SUPARCO.
  • Pakistan students can apply for scholarships in space sciences abroad to join global programs.
Where can you work?

Where Can You Work?

  • NASA (USA)
  • ESA (European Space Agency)
  • CNSA (China National Space Administration)
  • Roscosmos (Russia)
  • SUPARCO (Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission)
Education
  • BS in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or related sciences
  • MS/PhD in Space Sciences, Astrophysics, or Aeronautics
  • Pilot training or military aviation background preferred for astronaut candidates
Where can you study?
  • Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad
  • Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences (PIEAS)
  • International universities like MIT (USA), Caltech (USA), Tsinghua University (China), Moscow Aviation Institute (Russia)
Expenses & Scholarships
  • BS Degree in Pakistan: Rs. 150,000 – Rs. 300,000 per year
  • MS/PhD abroad: Rs. 2 million – Rs. 5 million per year
  • Scholarships: HEC Overseas Scholarships, Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC), Fulbright (USA)
  • SUPARCO scholarships for space-related studies

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