What does it take to become an astronaut? Here’s what NASA says.

Choosing NASA's astronauts is not a simple process. In March, 12,040 hopefuls, already in possession of a master's degree, applied to be members of the next class.

• The selection process involves a written application and reference checks as the process narrows down. Then, around 120 applicants will be invited to the first round of interviews.
• Some skills analysis and basic medical testing will be done, and then 40 to 60 people will be back for the second round of interviews.
• During the second round, they spend a week doing some team reaction exercises, individual performance exercises, and checking other competencies.

The focus is on operational experience in situations where they will make real-time decisions in a relatively high-stress environment. To gain this experience, people tend to go to the Antarctic or do wilderness rescue. They may also get their private pilot's license. Teamwork and leadership experience is essential.

When going through so many resumes, it's the unique things that stand out.