Astronaut Science & Engineering Technicians
SaveWhat Does an Astronaut Do?
Astronauts are crew members commanding spacecrafts for operations beyond low Earth orbit or higher than the regular altitude reached by commercial flights. They orbit the Earth in order to perform operations such as scientific research and experiments, launching or release of satellites, and building of space stations.
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Where Do I Start?
Geographic Information Systems
The tools involved in geographical mapping and positioning, such as GPS (global positioning systems), GIS (geographical information systems), and RS (remote sensing).
Sign up to trackReady to go deeper? Pick up to 3 skills to focus on from the list below.
These are common skills for this role. Real-world experience matters more than ticking every box — use this as a guide, not a checklist.
Skills You Need to Become an Astronaut
Essential Skills
Essential Skills
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EssentialGeographic Information Systems knowledge
The tools involved in geographical mapping and positioning, such as GPS (global positioning systems), GIS (geographical information systems), and RS (remote sensing).
Recommended Books
3 books -
EssentialGlobal Navigation Satellite System Performance Parameters knowledge
Know the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) performance parameters, and the requirements that an GNSS system should possess in specific conditions.
Recommended Books
1 book -
EssentialGeostationary Satellites knowledge
Know about geostationary satellites and how they function; moving in the same direction as rotation of the Earth. Understand how they are used for telecommunication and commercial purposes.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialPhysics knowledge
The natural science involving the study of matter, motion, energy, force and related notions.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialLaunching Of Satellites Into Orbit knowledge
Know about the different procedures, phases, and requirements for launching satellites into orbit.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialTypes Of Satellites knowledge
Understand the variety of satellites that exist and their different functions. Know the different types of satellites used for communications, streaming services, surveillance, and scientific research.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialCollect Data Using GPS skill
Gather data in the field using Global Positioning System (GPS) devices.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialCollect Geological Data skill
Participate in the collection of geological data such as core logging, geological mapping, geochemical and geophysical surveying, digital data capture, etc.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialGather Experimental Data skill
Collect data resulting from the application of scientific methods such as test methods, experimental design or measurements.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialOperate 3D Computer Graphics Software skill
Use graphical ICT tools, such as Autodesk Maya, Blender which enable digital editing, modelling, rendering and composition of graphics. These tools are based in mathematical representation of three-dimensional objects.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialOperate GPS Systems skill
Use GPS Systems.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialPossess Visual Literacy skill
Interpret charts, maps, graphics, and other pictorial presentations used in place of the written word. The graphics used vary from process to process; therefore, the professional must have sufficient knowledge …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialUse Communication Equipment skill
Set up, test and operate different types of communication equipment such as transmission equipment, digital network equipment, or telecommunications equipment.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialUse Different Communication Channels skill
Make use of various types of communication channels such as verbal, handwritten, digital and telephonic communication with the purpose of constructing and sharing ideas or information.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialConduct Research On Climate Processes skill
Conduct research on the characteristic events occurring in the atmosphere during the interactions and transformations of various atmospheric components and conditions.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialInterpret Graphical Communication Interfaces skill
Have the capacity to understand the various shapes and representations used in the schematics and 3D isometric model presented by communication programmes.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialPerform Gravity Measurements skill
Perform geophysical measurements using gravity meters which are either on the ground or airborne. Measure deviations from the normal gravity field, or anomalies, to determine the structure and composition of …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialPerform Scientific Experiments In Space skill
Perform different kinds of experiments in various fields of science including human, biological, and physical. Follow scientific methods and document findings, aiming to achieve innovation or discover industrial and commercial …
Course recommendations coming soon.
Optional Skills (5 of 13 displayed)
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OptionalAircraft Mechanics knowledge
Technicalities over mechanics in aircrafts and related topics in order to perform a wide range of repais in aircrafts.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalFluid Mechanics knowledge
The characteristics and properties of fluids, including gases, liquids and plasmas, at rest and in motion, and the forces on them.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalMechanics knowledge
Theoretical and practical applications of the science studying the action of displacements and forces on physical bodies to the development of machinery and mechanical devices.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalDeal With Challenging Work Conditions skill
Deal with challenging circumstances in which to perform work, such as night work, shift work, and atypical working conditions.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalAddress Aircraft Mechanical Issues skill
Identify and resolve mechanical issues which arise during flight; identify malfunctions in fuel gauges, pressure indicators and other electrical, mechanical or hydraulic components.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalAnalyse Weather Forecast skill
Analyse weather forecasts and the information provided on meteorological conditions, such as wind forces, atmospheric structures, clouds, and visibility. Provide analyses depending on the requirements of various different industries and …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalConsider Time Zones In Execution Of Work skill
Work considering multiple time zones and plan activities depending on the voyage times and respective operating times of ports around the world.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalOperate Gas Extraction Equipment skill
Operate the equipment used for oxygen and nitrogen extraction equipment such as compressors, fractionating columns, heat exchangers and purifying towers.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalPlan Space Satellite Missions skill
Plan missions to either launch, release, or capture satellites in orbit. Plan launch windows for each one of these activities and the steps required for a successful mission, such as …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalResearch Satellite Launch Sites skill
Research the suitability and adequacy of selected satellite launch sites. Analyse the launch site in relation to the purpose and requirements of the anticipated operation.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalTest Oxygen Purity skill
Test the purity and the moisture content of the processed oxygen making use of the burette moisture meter.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalTransfer Oxygen skill
Transfer liquid or gaseous oxygen by opening the valves to allow the transfer through the heat exchanger to cool air and store the oxygen in tanks ensuring the specific temperature …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalUse Specialised Computer Models For Weather Forecasting skill
Make short-term and long-term weather forecasts applying physical and mathematical formulae; understand specialised computer modelling applications.
Course recommendations coming soon.