Astronaut is one of the professions that many children around the world dream about because they can fly abroad to see stars and space objects.
One of the most frequently asked questions is what is the salary of an astronaut. The United States Space Agency (NASA) has an answer to that. NASA astronauts are paid according to their level, which refers to the Federal Government General Schedule (GS).
GS is a salary scale for federal employees for professional, technical, administrative positions. This system has 15 levels, from the lowest GS-1 to the highest GS-15.
GS-3 or GS-4: usually an intern. GS-5 to GS-7: most entry level positions. GS-8 to GS-12: Intermediate positions. GS-13 to GS-15: top level supervisory position. As for the position above the Senior Executive Service.
According to NASA an astronaut will be in the GS-12 level with an income of US $ 65,140 per year. Meanwhile, Astronauts in GS-13 position earn US $ 100,701 per year.
If astronauts have a qualified education with years of experience the salary could be even greater. Astronauts who are at the GS-15 level can earn US $ 142,000 a year, as quoted from the International Business Times or IBTimes, Wednesday (22/12/2020).
It is noteworthy that not everyone can become an astronaut. In addition to being physically fit, they must have a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering or maths or have 1,00 hours of jet flying experience, Business Insider reports.
In addition, they must also have emotional maturity because this work is high risk and takes a long time away from loved ones.
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