NASA names 24th astronaut class, including prior SpaceX crew member

NASA has officially revealed its latest group of astronaut candidates, marking a significant milestone in the agency's ongoing journey into space. This new class, which includes the first individual to have previously orbited Earth prior to joining NASA, was introduced during a ceremony at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Comprising four men and six women, this cohort of ten candidates will undergo two years of rigorous basic training. Upon completion, they will be eligible for mission assignments in low-Earth orbit as well as on lunar expeditions, aligning with NASA's ambitious Artemis program aimed at returning humans to the Moon and eventually sending them to Mars. Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy expressed pride in the selection, stating, "We picked the best and the brightest, the most skilled, and the most dynamic personalities to fill these ten positions. You represent America’s finest, and we will need your talents for our bold exploration plans ahead." Duffy emphasized the agency's commitment to lunar exploration, declaring, "We are going back to the Moon, and this time we intend to establish a lasting presence. The knowledge we gain from these Moon missions will pave the way for our journey to Mars and beyond into the cosmos." The event also featured remarks from NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya and Vanessa Wyche, the director of the Johnson Space Center, who highlighted the significance of this new class. Notably, this group is the first to consist of more women than men, a groundbreaking achievement in NASA's history. The selection process for this 24th astronaut class began in March 2024 and attracted over 8,000 applicants. The candidates come from diverse backgrounds, including military officers, engineers, a physician, and a scientist, showcasing a wide range of expertise and perspectives that will enhance NASA's mission strategies.