NASA has announced that it will begin accepting applications for its new batch of astronauts starting in December of this year.
According to the space agency, the successful candidates will have the opportunity to work on the International Space Station and possibly pioneer the future Mars programs.
As reported by NBC News, NASA will begin processing applications for the position starting on December 14. The screening process will take place until February of next year.
NASA announced through its Twitter page that the new batch of astronauts will be the first ones to spearhead the agency's journey to Mars.
"This next group of American space explorers will inspire the Mars generation to reach for new heights, and help us realize the goal of putting boot prints on the Red Planet," Charles Bolden of NASA said in a video posted on Twitter.
"Those selected for this service will fly on U.S.-made spacecraft from American soil, advance critical science and research aboard the International Space Station, and help push the boundaries of technology in the proving ground of deep space."
NASA did not divulge the details of the future program but according to NBC News, the agency is planning on launching a manned mission in 2017. This mission aims to bring astronauts to the International Space Station through the spacecraft currently being developed by Boeing and SpaceX, which was founded by Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk in 2002.
As for those looking to apply as one of NASA's astronauts, they can check out the position's requirements through the agency's website.
According to NASA, applicants must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, math, or physical science. They must also have at least three years of related professional experience or a minimum total of 1000 hours piloting a jet aircraft.
Aside from these requirements, candidates must also pass NASA's various tests to determine if they are mentally and physically fit to handle work in space.
Once they have been selected, the candidates will have to go through another series of tests and training sessions. These include military water survival, SCUBA qualification, spacewalk training and flying simulations.
Those that will be accepted for the position of astronaut can expect to earn a yearly income of $66,000 to $144,556. The responsibilities if the new astronauts will involve carrying out various operations aboard the International Space Station.
Both civilians and active-duty military personnel from the USAF, Army, USN, USCG and USMC are welcome to apply to become NASA's new astronauts.
