Canada is hiring astronauts. Two lucky and highly qualified Canadians will soon be embarking on a new career that will take them off this planet. After being narrowed down from a field of over three thousand applicants, there are now 72 candidates—the two astronauts who are ultimately selected will be announced this summer—I am fortunate enough to be one of them.
Let me tell you a little bit about what it's like to do a months-long interview for one of the most difficult-to-obtain jobs in the world.
All the finalists are highly qualified. Some are scientists, others are medical doctors or fighter pilots. As for me, I've been a dedicated space enthusiast for my entire life, and have a doctoral degree in long duration human spaceflight engineering. My ambition in life is to advance the cause of sustainable off-Earth settlement of our species, and I've always wanted to take a direct part in that, which is why I applied for the job.
So how does one get to be an astronaut? The initial application is like the most comprehensive survey you've ever filled out. Printed, it would probably be 30 or more pages outlining every academic, professional, and physical accomplishment you've had a part in.
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