The salary for a NASA astronaut ranges from $104,898 to $161,141 per year, depending on their experience and rank. However, astronauts also receive a number of benefits, including:
- Health insurance: NASA provides health insurance for astronauts and their families.
- Retirement plan: NASA participates in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Housing allowance: Astronauts who are not stationed at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, receive a housing allowance.
- Education allowance: Astronauts who are enrolled in school receive an education allowance.
- Tuition assistance: NASA provides tuition assistance for astronauts who want to take classes.
- Travel allowance: Astronauts who travel on NASA business receive a travel allowance.
In addition to their salary and benefits, astronauts also receive a number of one-time payments, such as:
- Flight pay: Astronauts who fly on a space shuttle mission receive flight pay.
- Hazard pay: Astronauts who work in hazardous environments, such as the International Space Station, receive hazard pay.
- Bonuses: Astronauts who make significant contributions to NASA’s mission may receive bonuses.
The total compensation for a NASA astronaut can be significant. For example, an astronaut with 10 years of experience can earn an annual salary of $141,141, plus benefits and one-time payments. This can amount to over $200,000 per year.
It is important to note that the salary and benefits for NASA astronauts can vary depending on a number of factors, such as their experience, rank, and the type of mission they are assigned to.