The European Space Agency’s (ESA) is recruiting Irish astronauts for upcoming missions. Do you have what it takes?
With many job losses across Ireland over the past year, it is no surprise that thousands are considering a career change. But have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to be Ireland’s next astronaut?
For the first time in over a decade, the European Space Agency (ESA) is looking for new recruits to join its team of astronauts and take part in exciting space explorations.
Men and women from all over Europe are being encouraged to apply for the exciting role as the recruitment process begins on 31 March.
So, if this sounds like something you’d be interested in, read on to find out if you have what it takes to be Ireland’s next astronaut.
An exciting opportunity – have the chance to explore outer space
Director general of the ESA, Jan Wörner, issued a statement saying Europe are now seeking to have a more significant role in space exploration and wanted to “go farther than ever before.”
Speaking of her hopes to submit a successful application, Irish Engineer and Space Activity Communicator Dr Niamh Shaw told Morning Ireland that she has always dreamed of venturing into space.
“My plan of attack of getting to space is to see the earth in its entirety,” she said.
Dr Shaw, who has two engineering degrees and a PhD in Science, said that if she is successful, she would like to share the experience with as many people as possible, and particularly with women.
What makes an astronaut – do you have what it takes?
When asked what it is that the ESA is looking for in its successful applicants, Dr Shaw said that “excellent good health, psychological stability, tenacity, and an aptitude for science and engineering” were the main priorities.
“Astronauts have incredible patience and an ability to work at a level at which most people would be unable to cope. They are very unique individuals,” she said.
Upon completing training, the successful astronaut will take their first flight into space to the Internation Space Station before forming part of the crew on the next missions to the moon planned for late the end of this decade and the early 2030s.
Experience in the space sector is not a requirement; however, candidates are asked to have at least MA and a minimum of three years’ experience in medicine, engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, or computer sciences. Fluency in English is also essential.
The ESA is also calling for applications from those with physical disabilities to apply to its astronaut reserve, which aims to open the career path to those who have previously been excluded from the sector.
So, if you think you have what it takes to be Ireland’s next astronaut, then make sure to submit your application to the ESA to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
