Commercial Astronaut Certificate

The full Commercial Astronaut Certificate is conducted in 3 phases. Phase 1 is our standalone Human Spaceflight Certificate, which contains all the knowledge needed to work on a human space mission. The phase 2 and 3 of the astronaut training focus on the practical astronaut skills and space readiness and mimics the space agencies programs while offering coaching and mentorship towards selections or future space missions.

PHASE 1

THE HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT CERTIFICATE

PHASE 2

PREP, CONDITIONING AND COACHING

  • Analog mission preparation

    Preparing for an analogue space mission involves comprehensive planning and training to simulate the conditions and challenges astronauts might encounter during actual space missions.

  • Crew training

    Develop cohesion and trust with your crew during a dedicated 3-day intensive crew training session with the Air and Space Force Academy. Working efficiently as a team is critical for the challenging and often isolated environment of space. The training ends with a Patrouille de France Conference.

  • Image of a control room during a rocket launch

    Physical Prep and Medical Assessment

    Prepare and get assessed for standard spaceflight medical requirements with space medecine professionals. Astronauts undergo rigorous medical testing to ensure they are physically and mentally fit for space travel. These tests are designed to identify any medical conditions or health issues that could pose a risk during a space mission.

  • Visual of a SFI student in a spacesuit taking a test

    Performances tests

    Learn techniques to enhance your mental resilience, decision-making abilities, and adaptability to the unique stressors of space missions. This specialized training encompasses a blend of psychotechnic and psychological components, carefully structured to optimize your performance during the practical training phase.

  • Public relations, a SFI student speak in front of a crowd

    Public relation and ethics

    Gain skills for effectively communicating with the public and representing space exploration endeavors. Get an introduction to science communication (scicomm), to be able to convey complex concepts in an engaging and accessible manner. This training will equip you with the tools to present your work, research, and missions with clarity and enthusiasm, fostering a connection with a broader audience, as well as the basis for crisis communication.

  • An image of a coach helping a sudent flying in a wind tunnel

    Coaching for Astronaut selections

    Benefit from personalized guidance from a team of seasoned mentors, astronaut trainers, and psychologists on your path to selection by governmental organizations or private space initiatives. This comprehensive coaching includes the advanced stress management program to understand the drive necessary to thrive in high-pressure, mission-critical settings, face failures, or manage risks for yourself and your crew.

PHASE 3

ASTRONAUT BOOTCAMP

  • two astronaut candidates wearing space suits during an analogue mission scenario in front of the Marthabitat

    Analog Mission

    Immerse yourself in a true-to-life simulation of space exploration in an analog environment. Experience isolation within a close-knit group, replicating the conditions of actual space missions. A team of experts will closely observe your performance to help you progress and cultivate essential teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability skills.

  • Scuba diver under ice

    Extreme environment training

    Undergo a series of rigorous survival and extreme environment training modules – such as under-ice scuba diving – each aimed at fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. Navigate unforeseen situations and learn how to function cohesively as a team in high-stress environments. Push your physical and mental boundaries and get ready for work in space.

  • Visual of a space station

    EVA Training

    (Coming up in 2025)

    Take the first dive towards your first spacewalk with this Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) training. Set within an underwater environment, equipped with specialized scuba gear, you'll discover the challenges of working in a weightless environment akin to outer space and how to maneuver and conduct a mission in a specialized scuba equipment mimicking a spacesuit, handling tools, and conducting demanding tasks while submerged.

  • Astronaut canditate in zero in Novespace's Airbus A310 ZERO-G conducting an experiment with her hair floating around her

    Microgravity Flight

    During a unique 2-day science parabolic flight campaign, you’ll get the unique opportunity to conduct experiments in 0G and learn how to take care of a crew mate in emergency situations in microgravity.

  • A picture of the Nastar centrifuge

    High-G Training

    Get ready for the intense physical challenges of liftoff and returning to Earth. Through intensive high-g training in a professional grade centrifuge at Nastar, develop the strength and resilience needed to withstand the gravitational forces exerted during these crucial phases of a space flight.

  • Pills floating in microgravity

    Emergency Situations

    Prepare for critical situations (depressurization, upset flight conditions, etc.) with Nastar. Train your instincts to respond effectively to maintain composure, make swift decisions, and execute precise actions under pressure. This training will not only bolster your technical competence but also foster the mental fortitude required to navigate unforeseen crises with confidence and precision, ensuring the safety and success of your future space missions.

  • Advanced flight training

    Fly through a comprehensive program tailored to your skill level. At a minimum, the FAA mandates that astronauts be instrument-rated pilots, to ensure you have a strong foundation in navigating and operating aircraft under various conditions. However, you can go a step further by getting an introduction to jet training, to handle high-performance aircraft with precision and finesse.

  • Stratospheric flight (optional)

    Get your real first cosmic perspective of Earth's upper atmosphere and a taste of the overview effect by flying aboard our collaborator Zephalto’s pressurized stratospheric capsule. Take on the role of a mission specialist to gain unparalleled insights into future space missions.

Pre-apply now