Nasa Astronauts

NASA astronauts are individuals trained by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the United States government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research. The term "astronaut" derives from the Greek words "astro" (meaning "star") and "nautes" (meaning "sailor"), essentially translating to "star sailor." In Hebrew, the term is אסטרונאוט (astronaut). In Russian, it is космонавт (kosmonavt), and in Chinese, it is 宇航员 (yǔhángyuán). NASA astronauts undergo rigorous training to prepare for spaceflight missions, which may include conducting experiments, piloting spacecraft, performing extravehicular activities (spacewalks), and operating complex equipment. They are selected through a highly competitive process that considers factors such as education, professional experience, physical fitness, and psychological suitability. NASA astronauts have been instrumental in various historic missions, including the Apollo moon landings, the Space Shuttle program, and the ongoing International Space Station (ISS) expeditions. Their work contributes significantly to scientific research, technological advancement, and our understanding of space and Earth.