Become aCommercial Space Pilot

Imagine rocketing beyond Earth’s atmosphere and seeing the planet from a perspective few have ever enjoyed. As a Commercial Space Pilot, you get to lead groundbreaking missions into space and contribute to interstellar discoveries. This career is perfect for those who crave adventure, aspire to push boundaries, and are fascinated by the cosmos.

These pilots will need to work with their flight crew and ground crew to ensure optimal safety. 

Commercial Space Pilots will need more than a pilot’s licence to earn their wings, they’ll need a degree in aerospace, astrophysics, or some other space-related degree.

• Explore space and see Earth from orbit.
• Pilot the latest spacecraft on commercial missions.
• Join a groundbreaking industry shaping the future.
• Experience the thrill of space travel daily.

A Commercial Space Pilot commands or co-pilots spacecraft for various missions, including satellite launches, space tourism, and commercial research missions. Unlike traditional pilots, space pilots deal with the complexities of space travel, from navigating in zero gravity to managing spacecraft systems under extraordinary conditions.

A Commercial Space Pilot is responsible for the safe take-off, flying, and landing of commercial space vessels. This could be for tourist flights, or possibly for mining flights hauling resources from asteroids.

The industries involving Commercial Space Pilots are diverse and expanding rapidly as space becomes more accessible and commercialised. These professionals are not just limited to government space agencies; they play integral roles across multiple sectors.

• Aerospace and Defence
• Space Tourism
• Satellite Communications
• Research and Development
• Space Colony Construction
• Environmental Monitoring

To become a Commercial Space Pilot, a unique and advanced skill set is essential. These skills ensure that pilots can safely navigate and operate spacecraft, manage unforeseen challenges during spaceflight, and contribute effectively to their missions. Here’s a detailed look at the skills necessary for this thrilling and demanding career:

Skills Needed to Become a Commercial Space Pilot

Astronautical Navigation

Understanding and executing interstellar navigation techniques, including orbital mechanics and celestial navigation.

Technical Proficiency

Mastery over the spacecraft’s onboard systems and technology, with the ability to troubleshoot and repair issues that may arise during flight.

Problem-solving

Quick thinking and effective decision-making skills to solve unexpected problems during missions, which could range from system malfunctions to emergency scenarios.

Physical Fitness

Maintaining excellent health and physical condition to withstand the rigours of space travel, such as high G-forces during launch and re-entry, and the challenges of living in zero-gravity environments.

Teamwork

Ability to work cohesively with a diverse crew and ground control, often under stressful conditions, to ensure mission success.

Stress Management

Coping mechanisms to handle the high-stress environment of space travel, including isolation and the psychological impacts of long-duration missions.

These skills are not just about technical ability but also involve physical preparedness and mental resilience. Developing these capabilities through education and training is critical for anyone aspiring to navigate the new frontier of commercial space flight.

Certain STEM subjects provide the foundational knowledge needed to pursue a career as a Commercial Space Pilot.

Physics

Understands the fundamental laws of motion and energy.

Mathematics

Crucial for navigation and technical calculations.

Engineering

Provides insight into spacecraft design and operation.

Computer Science

Essential for managing advanced spacecraft systems.

Astronomy

Offers knowledge about the space environment.

Physical Education

Maintains physical fitness required for space travel.

EXPLORE: https://student.scsa.wa.edu.au/

Being a Commercial Space Pilot is not just about steering a spacecraft beyond the atmosphere; it’s about embarking on some of the coolest, most awe inspiring missions imaginable. Here’s a look at what makes the role of a Commercial Space Pilot so exciting:

What Cool Things Does a Commercial Space Pilot Do?

Orbit the Earth

Imagine floating in space and witnessing multiple sunrises and sunsets in a single day. Commercial Space Pilots experience this phenomenon regularly, orbiting the Earth and taking in breathtaking views that few others have ever seen.

Participate in Spacewalks

Space Pilots occasionally exit their spacecraft to conduct repairs or scientific experiments in the vacuum of space. This activity, known as a spacewalk or EVA (Extravehicular Activity), is a unique and thrilling aspect of their job.

Dock with Space Stations

Pilots perform complex manoeuvres to dock spacecraft with space stations like the International Space Station (ISS). This requires precision and skill and allows them to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts from around the world.

Conduct Zero-Gravity Experiments

In the unique microgravity environment of space, pilots help carry out experiments that cannot be conducted on Earth. These could involve physics, biology, or human physiology, contributing to scientific advancements.

Explore Other Planets

As commercial space travel evolves, pilots may soon find themselves at the helm of missions to other planets like Mars. These groundbreaking journeys will push the boundaries of human exploration.

Promote Space Tourism

Commercial Space Pilots play a crucial role in the emerging field of space tourism, piloting civilian passengers into space. This aspect of their job allows them to share the wonder of space travel with people from diverse backgrounds.

Help Build Future Space Habitats

Future missions might involve constructing outposts on other celestial bodies or in orbit around Earth. Space Pilots will be integral to these projects, helping to establish human presence further into the solar system.

Each task that a Commercial Space Pilot undertakes adds layers to an already fascinating career, merging science, technology, and adventure in ways that are literally out of this world!

There are currently no well-known female Commercial Space Pilots in Australia, as commercial space flight is still an upcoming industry globally, with limited opportunities and only a few private missions having taken place. 

While Australia is advancing its space capabilities through organisations like the Australian Space Agency, there aren’t any publicly recognised female pilots specifically flying commercial space missions.

However, there are notable women in the broader Australian space industry who are paving the way for future opportunities in space travel:

Katherine Bennell-Pegg

Director of Space Technology at the Australian Space Agency and an advocate for Australia’s growing presence in the space sector. She plays a crucial role in supporting the future development of commercial space opportunities.

Dr. Kimberley Clayfield

Executive Director at CSIRO’s Space Research Program, she leads projects that contribute to Australia’s space industry and space science capabilities, supporting the growth of space technologies and the workforce.

Andrea Boyd

An Australian engineer who works at the European Space Agency (ESA) in mission control, where she supports astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) and plays a significant role in international space operations.

Dr. Sarah Pearce

Deputy Director of CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science, leading Australia’s work in space research, including radio astronomy and technology development for future space exploration missions.

These women are influential in Australia’s space industry and are helping to lay the groundwork for future opportunities, including potential commercial space piloting roles.

Commercial Space Pilots need a variety of personality traits to manage the unique challenges of space travel.

• Courageous
• Calm
• Open-minded
• Conscientious
• Flexible
• Resilient

To launch your career as a Commercial Space Pilot, there are several tertiary education pathways in Australia that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the frontiers of space.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineering programs cover the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft. You’ll learn about propulsion systems, aerodynamics, avionics, and materials science, all of which are crucial for piloting and operating spacecraft.

University of Sydney offers a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Aeronautical Engineering with aerospace electives.

University of New South Wales (UNSW) provides an Aerospace Engineering program with a focus on space systems.

Astrophysics

A degree in Astrophysics will deepen your understanding of the physical universe, including stars, planets, and cosmic phenomena. This knowledge is valuable for comprehending the space environment, orbital mechanics, and how to navigate in space.

Australian National University (ANU): Offers a Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics, providing a strong foundation in theoretical and observational astrophysics.

Monash University: Provides programs in physics with specialisations in astrophysics.

Aviation Technology

A degree in Aviation Technology focuses on the science and technology behind aircraft operations, including piloting, flight safety, and avionics. This training is essential for mastering the skills required to control spacecraft and understand the complexities of spaceflight.

Swinburne University of Technology: Offers a Bachelor of Aviation and Piloting program that combines aviation science with practical flying experience.

Griffith University: Provides aviation programs that cover the fundamentals of flight technology and aerodynamics.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering teaches you the principles of mechanics, materials science, and energy systems, which are essential for understanding the structures and systems of spacecraft. You’ll learn to design and maintain the mechanical components critical to spacecraft operation.

University of Melbourne: Offers a Bachelor of Science with a major in Mechanical Systems, focusing on applications in aerospace.

Queensland University of Technology (QUT): Provides a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering with aerospace electives.

Computer Science

A background in Computer Science is vital for managing the software systems that control spacecraft, including navigation, communication, and automated systems. You will learn coding, data analysis, and machine learning, all key to developing space technologies.

University of Sydney: Offers a Bachelor of Advanced Computing, with opportunities to specialise in space technology.

University of Melbourne: Provides a Bachelor of Science with a major in Computing and Software Systems, which includes courses on robotics and space applications.

Imagine combining your love for computers with the thrill of flight. At university, you can mix degrees and subjects to create a customised learning path. For example:

Aerospace Engineering and Computer Science

Learn how to design spacecraft and also program the software that controls them. This combination prepares you for a role in both the development and operation of space vehicles.

Aviation and Business Management

Understanding how to pilot aircraft and manage business operations can be crucial, especially in the commercial space industry, which is as much about innovation as it is about market viability.

Mechanical Engineering and Robotics

Equip yourself with the knowledge to design spacecraft components and the robots that may construct habitats on other planets. This skill set is vital as missions become more automated and complex.

Your education will cover a wide array of topics, from the principles of flight in and out of the atmosphere to advanced simulation training. You’ll learn skills like:

• Orbital mechanics
• Electronic systems
• Space weather
• Emergency procedures
• Develop leadership skills
• Learn to command a spacecraft

Gaining relevant work experience is key. This could involve internships with aerospace firms, flight simulation training, and even piloting drones. Each experience will provide a glimpse into the technical skills and mental resilience required in space.

Check out:

• ASTRO 3D: They offer a work experience short-term placement (usually one week) for Year 10-12 students with researchers. The aim is to provide insights into the work of astronomers in university and industry. Students can explore research interests by undertaking a small astronomical project under the supervision of a professional astronomer, attending presentations/scientific talks by ASTRO 3D astronomers, and learning how to align future school studies with potential career aspirations.

VALIANT SPACE: Valiant Space is an Australian in-space propulsion company with a vision to enable the next generation of space transportation. The company is currently developing its first propulsion system for small satellites. They offer unpaid student placement opportunities for students studying engineering and requiring work experience hours towards their degree.

Not everyone will take the university route, and that’s okay! Here are a couple of alternatives:

Micro Learning and Certifications

Engage in specific aerospace courses online that offer certifications in areas like drone operation, basic aviation, and even introductory astrobiology.

On-the-Job Experience

Start with a ground-based role in an aerospace company, where you can gradually build up practical skills and perhaps transition into more advanced aerospace training programs.

The following sectors are known for paving the pathway to future opportunities for Commercial Space Pilots.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, you can explore opportunities in emerging aerospace centres and research facilities focused on space technology, benefiting from regional growth in satellite and space exploration technologies.

Australia

Across Australia, the commercial space sector is expanding with projects ranging from satellite communications to planned launch sites for space tourism. This growth translates into a rising demand for trained space pilots and technicians.

The Rest of the World

Internationally, the career opportunities expand significantly. You can find roles in established space agencies like NASA, ESA, and private companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin. These organisations are at the forefront of space exploration and tourism, offering roles that could take you literally out of this world!

Embarking on a career as a Commercial Space Pilot means joining the next generation of explorers who will not only visit but also work and live in space. Are you ready for the journey of a lifetime?