Space agency needs more astronauts
Space agency needs more astronauts
2008-05-09Newsfeed
Budding astronauts are being given the chance to join future European Space Agency missions to the International Space Station.
Budding astronauts are being given the chance to join future European Space Agency missions to the International Space Station.
The European Space Agency (ESA) has just eight astronauts, with an average age of 50, and the ESA hopes a recruitment drive will help find four more, ideally aged 27 to 37.
Gerhard Thiele, the head of ESA's astronaut corps, said: "If we have a moon programme and if Europe commits to participating in that, I anticipate that one of those who we are selecting now will walk on the moon."
Alan Thirkettle, ESA's programme manager for the space station, said the "inspirational" astronaut programme aims to drive technological development and economic competitiveness across the continent.
The agency needs scientists and engineers, and also pilots who can fly sophisticated jets. Successful applicants must also have various personality traits, including high motivation.
After rigorous psychological and professional aptitude tests, applicants must pass medical examination certificate which private pilots in Europe require, and also a medical conducted by a specialised aviation medical examiner.
Successful applicants will be shortlisted to 40 people, who will be then grilled in formal interviews by an ESA selection board.
Interested parties can apply online from May 19 - June 15.
Copyright © The Press Association 2008
