Have you dreamt of going to space one day? Do you have “an academic background in science or technology, excellent health, and a wide range of outstanding qualities and skills?”
If so, polish up that resume because the Canadian Space Agency is looking to hire two new astronauts, says Canada’s minister of innovation, science and economic development.
“Our astronauts have been a source of national pride for our country,” said Navdeep Bains at a press conference at the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa. “If you have been aspired to go beyond our planet’s frontier, now is your chance to make this dream a reality.”
Candidates are invited to apply starting today on the Canadian Space Agency website. Applications will be accepted until Aug. 15.
‘Rigorous selection process’
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in science or engineering and/or a doctorate in medicine or dentistry.
Applicants must also meet very stringent medical requirements and be in excellent health, the agency said.
Selected applicants will be required to undergo CSA medical examinations, which include the following requirements:
- Height: Between 149.5 cm and 190.5 cm
- Weight: Between 50 kg and 95 kg
- Visual acuity: 20/20 (6/6) or better in each eye, with or without correction.
- Blood pressure: Not higher than 140/90 mm Hg, measured in a sitting position.
- Auditory acuity: Normal hearing (do not suffer from a chronic or recurring auditory condition).
Candidates who make it past the first round will take part in a “rigorous selection process” lasting almost a year that involves a battery of physical and mental fitness tests and interviews, the agency said.
In 2009, the CSA chose David Saint-Jacques of Quebec City and Jeremy Hansen of London, Ontario, to be Canada’s next astronauts.
In May the space agency announced that Saint-Jacques, 46, has been booked on a Russian Soyuz rocket that blasts off for the International Space Station in November 2018. Hansen, 40, is expected to fly into space by 2024.
With files from CBC News
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