Many of us dream of becoming an astronaut but only a few are
chosen. (Photo by Nancy Stone)  So you want to be an astronaut?
Excellent! Here's a career that combines cool technology,
fascinating science and great adventures.  Many of us dream of
becoming an astronaut but only a few are chosen. The National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the agency
responsible for spaceflight and the key to making your dream a
reality.  Including the "Original Seven," only 339 astronauts
have been selected to date by NASA.  There are three types of
astronauts in the U.S. program: 1. Commander/pilot, 2. Mission
specialist and 3. Payload specialist.  NASA selects astronauts
from a diverse pool of applicants with a wide variety of
backgrounds. The minimum degree requirement for an astronaut is
a bachelor's. Your grades should also allow you to enroll in a
solid Master of Science program.  Choosing a scientific field is
helpful but not mandatory. Possibilities include biology,
chemistry, physics, aerospace engineer