Human World Space

Canada is recruiting new astronauts

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July 8, 2016

Canadian astronaut David Saint-Jacques. Maybe you have the right stuff, too, 'eh? Image via CSA. — Canadian astronaut David Saint-Jacques. Maybe you have the right stuff, too, ‘eh? Image via CSA.

For the first time since March 2008, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is actively recruiting astronauts! Check out its astronaut recruitment campaign web page.

Applications are open until August 15, 2016. CSA says it will select two qualified astronaut candidates from a diverse pool of Canadian citizens with a wide variety of backgrounds. Those selected after the first round of evaluation will take part in a rigorous selection process that will last almost a year. CSA expects to announce selected candidates next summer.

This next class of Canadian astronaut candidates will begin its training at NASA in August, 2017.

Canada is a participant in the International Space Station (ISS), with expertise in robotics and optics. It has flown eight astronauts to space over 16 ISS missions.

Apply to become one of the next Canadian astronauts!

Frequently asked questions about Canadian astronauts

Of course, by far the most famous Canada astronaut – and the coolest Canadian astronaut of all, in the opinion of many – is Chris Hadfield. I’ve watched his version of David Bowie’s Space Oddity many, many times now, and it still gives me chills.

Bottom line: Are you as cool as Chris Hadfield? Apply to become Canada’s next astronaut. Applications are open until August 15, 2016. Apply here.

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July 8, 2016

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Deborah Byrd

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About the Author:

Deborah Byrd created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Prior to that, she had worked for the University of Texas McDonald Observatory since 1976, and created and produced their Star Date radio series. Today, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of this website. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named 3505 Byrd in her honor. In 2020, she won the Education Prize from the American Astronomical Society, the largest organization of professional astronomers in North America. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.