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Astronauts are trained to operate spacecraft and work for government or private space programs. They endure grueling schedules and training programs for years before going into space. Manned spaceflight began in Russia in 1961 and the United States quickly followed. Astronauts are cross-trained to perform a variety of tasks and must have extensive knowledge of astronomy, physics, and other sciences. Training is demanding and applicants must pass physical and psychological exams. National space programs occasionally allow special visitors to take seats on space flights, if they can demonstrate that their inclusion will benefit the mission.
An astronaut is someone who is trained to operate or work aboard spacecraft. Many of these people work for government-sponsored space programs, although private companies have also started working in space in the early 21st century. Astronauts are often figures of awe and admiration in their communities, and this adulation is well deserved; they endure grueling schedules and training programs for years before they can even go into space. They are also at the peak of physical fitness and most are extremely intelligent.
Manned spaceflight began in Russia in 1961 when Yuri Gagarin was launched into orbit by the Soviet space program. The United States quickly followed suit, and these two nations have historically dominated spaceflight, although citizens of many other countries have also been to space. International cooperation between national space programs led to the founding of the International Space Station in 1998. Russian astronauts are known as cosmonauts, although the two terms may be used interchangeably.
Because the area on a spacecraft is extremely limited, astronauts are cross-trained to perform a variety of tasks. A pilot, for example, might also be trained to conduct scientific experiments or work on equipment repair. In space, these professionals pilot their craft, conduct experiments and observe the Earth from their unique point of view. They typically have extensive knowledge of astronomy, physics, and other sciences, and must also be good at working cooperatively with people in confined spaces.
Training to become astronauts is very demanding and space programs accept only a limited number of people as trainees. Applicants must pass physical and psychological exams and undergo regular exams to ensure they stay fit for the job. These exams include stress tests to determine if the candidate will be able to handle the unique conditions in the space. A college degree and related experience is often required, along with experience flying jet aircraft, if someone is to become a pilot.
When someone is accepted for training, they will spend months in a training facility and in a variety of conditions that simulate the environment of outer space. These people actually spend most of their time on the ground, as seats on flights are very limited. National space programs occasionally allow special visitors to take seats on space flights, if such individuals can demonstrate that their inclusion will benefit the mission; these visitors must also endure training.
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