Civilian Astronauts

• Astronauts are government employees and receive salaries based on the Federal government pay schedule, according to NASA. Astronauts have pay grades of either GS-12 or GS-13. Government employee salaries vary depending on each astronaut's experience and qualifications, but they can range from a GS-12 earning a minimum salary of $60,274 per year to a GS-13 making as much as $100,701.
  
  

Military Astronauts

• Many astronauts also come out of the ranks of the various branches of the military. These astronauts remain employees of the Department of Defense and receive salaries commensurate with their pay grades and years of experience. For example, an astronaut candidate who is a captain in the United States Air Force (O-3) with eight years of experience earns $5,373 per month, plus allowances and other military pay and benefits.
  
  

Pilot Requirements

• NASA has two main astronaut categories: pilots and mission specialists. Pilot candidates must have a bachelor's degree in either engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics, according to NASA. The candidate must also have at least 1,000 hours as a pilot in command of a jet-powered aircraft, and experience as a test pilot is highly desirable. The pilot must also pass a physical examination that includes demonstrating 20/100 or better incorrected vision, a blood pressure of 140/90 in a seated position, and a height of between 62 and 75 inches.
  
  

Mission Specialist Requirements

• Mission specialists perform specific tasks, such as technical systems maintenance or scientific procedures. These astronauts must also have at least a bachelor's degree and have at least three years experience in a related professional field. Advanced degrees are highly desired, but can be substituted by additional professional experience. Mission specialist candidates must also meet the physical requirements, though these are somewhat less stringent. The candidate must have at least 20/200 uncorrected vision, a blood pressure of 140/90 while seated and be between 58.5 and 76 inches tall.