What background is often crucial for the path to becoming a NASA Pilot or Commander?
Answer
Extensive flight experience, often gained as a military test pilot.
The specialized and high-stakes nature of piloting spacecraft, especially in historical contexts where manual control was paramount, requires an expert foundation in operating complex vehicles under stress. For roles like Commander and Pilot, NASA traditionally seeks candidates who have accumulated significant flight hours and experience in high-performance, complex aircraft environments, most commonly attained through service as a military test pilot. This background ensures the required expert-level proficiency in vehicle operation and emergency management.
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