Who Wants to Be an Astronaut: Discovery’s 2021 Plans
Who Wants to Be an Astronaut was the title of a proposed Discovery competition series announced in 2021. Our June report looked at the idea of giving a contestant an opportunity to visit the International Space Station. However, the article described a plan rather than a completed prize flight.
Discovery presented the programme as an eight-part series. In addition, the concept involved challenges inspired by astronaut training. Read Discovery’s original announcement for the proposed format and mission context.
Training and Competition Challenges
Who Wants to Be an Astronaut aimed to follow contestants as they faced a range of tests. For example, our original coverage discussed physical capabilities and preparation for space. The appeal came from combining a television competition with the demands of a real mission.
Nevertheless, winning a competition and becoming ready for spaceflight are separate steps. A proposed journey still depends on mission arrangements and preparation. Therefore, readers should distinguish the show’s ambition from a confirmed launch or an account of someone reaching the station.
Who Wants to Be an Astronaut and Private Missions
The announcement sat within a wider period of interest in commercial human spaceflight. Meanwhile, NASA and Axiom Space were arranging private missions to the station. NASA’s May 2021 mission agreement announcement provides background on that separate development.
Our original article mentioned a possible 2022 flight window. This was a proposed timetable, rather than proof that the television prize journey occurred. In particular, this page records the 2021 coverage and does not present the old casting invitation as currently open.
Discover More Spaceflight Stories
Who Wants to Be an Astronaut offered an unusual television angle on space exploration. To follow more industry stories, browse RocketBreaks news. Alternatively, explore our Earth-based space experiences for activities that connect with space closer to home.