Can I become an astronaut by studying astronomy?

My question is what if you want to become an astronomer and an astronaut? Do you have to get different degress in both? I want to go to the moon, and when I return I want to study the Solar System. What kind of fields should I look into? read more

It’s difficult to obtain a Ph.D. in astronomy but much more so to become an astronaut. Google “astronomer astronauts” and you can see their names and photos. Do not know your age, but given that Mission to Mars is a big program, then studying planetary science and geology might be one strategy. read more

Usually to become an astronaut you need a degree in some field of science or medicine - not necessarily astronomy but it can be astronomy. No school offers a degree relating to being an astronaut directly. Instead, NASA looks at what you've done in your chosen field of science, and selects based on your past experience. read more

Astronaut candidacy and path to flight. Once selected, NASA does not consider you to be a full astronaut yet. There are two years of basic training ahead in which you are considered an"astronaut candidate." The candidates receive basic classroom learning about the International Space Station and spaceflight generally. read more

Another way to become an astronaut is to be the pilot. For this you need air force training because you need a lot of flight training and experience with military aircraft. However, to be an astronomer you need a physics or astronomy degree and research experience in astronomy. read more

As you can see - you don't become an astronaut first. You do something useful, and then become an astronaut. If you're only doing what you have to do first to get into space, then you'll probably hate it. read more