Name of Information Collection: NASA Astronaut Candidate Selection Qualifications Inquiry
Published Date: 6/30/2026
Notice
Summary
NASA is updating how it collects info about astronaut applicants by asking their bosses, co-workers, and references for feedback. This helps NASA pick the best space explorers while cutting down on paperwork. If you’re involved, get ready to share your thoughts by July 30, 2026—no extra costs, just a smoother astronaut selection process!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Reference Respondents: 20‑Minute Burden
If NASA contacts you as a previous employer, direct-reporting manager, co-worker, or other reference for an astronaut applicant, you'll be asked to complete a qualifications inquiry that takes about 20 minutes. NASA estimates about 2,250 respondents per activity and a total annual burden of 750 hours. You may respond electronically or on paper, and comments on the collection are due by July 30, 2026.
Applicants Face Reference-Based Evaluation
If you apply to the NASA Astronaut Candidate Program, NASA will use qualitative and quantitative information from your previous employer(s), direct-reporting manager, co-workers, and other references to evaluate your work ethic and professionalism during selection. That information will be used by the NASA Astronaut Selection Office and Human Resources at the Johnson Space Center as part of the candidate evaluation.
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