<P> Salaries for newly hired civilian astronauts are based on the federal government's General Schedule pay scale for grades GS - 11 through GS - 14 . The astronaut's grade is based on his or her academic achievements and experience . Astronauts can be promoted up to grade GS - 15 . As of 2015, astronauts based at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, earn between $66,026 (GS - 11 step 1) and $158,700 (GS - 15 step 8 and above). </P> <P> Military astronauts are detailed to the Johnson Space Center and remain on active duty for pay, benefits, leave, and similar military matters . </P> <P> There are no age restrictions for the NASA Astronaut Corps . Astronaut candidates have ranged between the ages of 26 and 46, with the average age being 34 . Candidates must be U.S. citizens to apply for the program . </P> <P> There are three broad categories of qualifications: education, work experience, and medical . </P>

What is the age limit to be an astronaut