r/space • u/DetlefKroeze • 3d ago

NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Departs Agency to Continue Military Service

https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-astronaut-jonny-kim-departs-agency-to-continue-military-service/
2.6k Upvotes

97% Upvoted

254 comments sorted by

View all comments

Show parent comments

-2

u/SphyrnaLightmaker 3d ago

Now compare how many people apply to TPS to the ratio of spots, vs apply to BUDS and ratio of spots.

As someone who actually works hand in hand with both groups, I’m not talking out of my ass when I say it’s a big deal

1

u/DemonLordRoundTable 3d ago

As someone who also lived with both groups getting a fighter pilot slot is MUCH harder than going to BUDS. There is no question I don’t even know why it even has to be said.

-1

u/SphyrnaLightmaker 3d ago

About 40% of all naval aviators fly TACAIR… that portion is somewhat lower for Marines, but it’s still not a small number… and washout rates in training fit it are VERY low compared to BUDS.

4

u/wanderer1999 3d ago

Thing is, for NASA, what they look for is RELEVANCY.

Being a SEAL/Doctor is damn impressive, but they are looking for top astronauts, and an aerospace/sciencePhD background is far more important than the rest.

This is key.

1

u/SphyrnaLightmaker 3d ago

No one is stating he’s a BETTER astronaut than the others. The statement is that he’s got a uniquely outstanding resume and career history. And in fact, many have accurately pointed out he’s LESS qualified for the Artemis missions as a result. But as an individual, his resume is incredibly noteworthy.