Astronaut Salary 2011

Astronauts perform a truly elite job, belonging to the select group of people who get to travel into space. Their pay is based on the federal government’s general schedule for grades GS-12 and GS-13. An astronaut’s salary in 2011 is estimated to be $75,000, with most living expenses covered as well. Their income increases with the length of service and qualifications. Astronauts are also provided with life, health, dental and vision insurance. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is responsible for the nation’s civilian space program. The employment to NASA is restricted and it currently employs about 80 astronauts. Military astronauts are based in the Johnson Space Center.