Lots of People Want to be an Astronaut (updated)
NASA Receives Second Highest Number of Astronaut Applications
“More than 6,300 individuals applied to become a NASA astronaut between Nov. 15, 2011 and Jan. 27, the second highest number of applications ever received by the agency. After a thorough selection process, which includes interviews and medical examinations, nine to 15 people will be selected to become part of the 21st astronaut class.”
Keith’s note: According to NASA PAO, NASA received 8,000 astronaut applications in 1978. Hmm … It was during 1977 that NASA used Nichelle Nichols to help encourage a broader range of applicants. According to Memory Alpha: “After meeting Nichols at a Star Trek convention in 1975, scientist Dr. Jesco von Puttkamer suggested that the actress take part in NASA’s recruitment drive. Nichols took up the role in 1977, making recruitment and training films, and supervising astronaut recruits and hopefuls. She noted that the applicant count went from fewer than 100 a year to 1,649 within six months.”
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Keith’s note: It would be interesting to know when the highest number of applications were received.
Wow, Keith. Did you read the article?
You just need to read all the way to the end: “Typically, the agency receives between 2,500 and 3,500 applicants for astronaut vacancy announcements. The highest response occurred in 1978 with 8,000 applicants.”
Google search…: http://www.nasa.gov/home/hq…
“Typically, the agency receives between 2,500 and 3,500 applicants for astronaut vacancy announcements. The highest response occurred in 1978 with 8,000 applicants.”
Oops, I missed it too, that was the same article.
So much, I am afraid, for claims that the cost of the space program is justified by the inspiration it provides for American youth. It appears Star Trek is more inspiring than NASA.