What competency is now expected of virtually every NASA astronaut, even if designated Mission Specialist?
Answer
High level of operational aptitude traditionally associated with piloting, including manual control interfaces.
Despite formal job titles like Mission Specialist, current NASA astronaut selection ensures that nearly all crew members possess substantial operational skills fundamental to vehicle control. This means they are deeply versed in emergency procedures, spacecraft systems knowledge, and the execution of manual control inputs, skills historically linked to piloting. This baseline competency ensures that any crew member can effectively manage the vehicle during contingencies, even if their primary assignment relates to research or station maintenance.
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