Careers in Space

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test spacecraft, satellites, and launch vehicles. They work on the vehicles that will carry humans…

Astrobiologists study the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe, designing experiments to detect biosignatures.

Communications engineers design the systems that transmit data across vast distances — from deep-space antenna design to data compression.

Specialists in growing food in controlled environments — hydroponics, aeroponics, vertical farming — without natural soil or weather.

Life support engineers design closed-loop systems that maintain breathable air, clean water, and safe temperature on spacecraft and habitats.

Planetary geologists study the composition, structure, and history of planetary surfaces, analyzing rock formations and evidence of ancient water.

Robotics engineers design and program robots for autonomous operation. On Mars, robots will precede humans and work alongside them.

Space medicine physicians specialize in the health effects of spaceflight — radiation, muscle atrophy, bone loss, vision changes, and psychological…

Space psychologists study psychological effects of confinement, isolation, and interpersonal stress in extreme environments.