BIENNIAL ASTRONAUT SELECTION PROCESS BEGINS



May 14, 1997



Debra Rahn
Headquarters, Washington, DC
(Phone: 202/358-1778)



Eileen Hawley
Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX
(Phone: 281/483-5111)

<h4>Release: 97-97</h4> <h3>Biennial Astronaut Selection Process 
Begins</h3> 

NASA is accepting applications for mission specialist and pilot 
astronauts for the current selection cycle. Interested individuals 
may apply until the cut-off date of July 1, 1997. Applications 
received after the deadline will be eligible for consideration in the 
next selection cycle.



Successful pilot applicants typically have extensive piloting 
experience in high performance jet aircraft and flight experience.



Successful applicants for the mission specialist positions typically 
have significant backgrounds in engineering or the sciences 
(materials science, Earth science, medical science, and space 
science).



After a six-month process, including screening applications and 
conducting interviews and medical evaluations, selections will be 
announced in early 1998 with the new astronaut candidates reporting 
to the Johnson Space Center, Houston, in the summer of 1998.



"We are looking for individuals who not only are outstanding in their 
chosen field of work, but also possess the ability to get along with 
others and work in a diverse, multi- cultural environment," said 
David C. Leestma, director of Flight Crew Operations. "We are in a 
very challenging and dynamic time in human space exploration, and the 
people we choose will be an integral part of this nation's reach for 
the stars."



NASA accepts applications for mission specialist and pilot astronaut 
positions on a continuing basis.



An application package may be obtained by calling the Astronaut 
Selection Office at 281/483-5907, or writing to:



NASA-Johnson Space Center Astronaut Selection Office Mail Code AHX 
Houston, TX 77058-3696

	
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