how much does an astronaut make
Astronaut pay varies a lot, but for a NASA civilian astronaut, a common range is about 104,898104,898104,898 to 161,141161,141161,141 per year, depending on grade and experience. Some sources also report lower or broader estimates, including roughly 84,36584,36584,365 to 115,079115,079115,079 on the GS scale or about 89,69389,69389,693 to 122,336122,336122,336 based on education and step level.
Quick Scoop
Astronauts are generally paid like specialized government professionals, not like celebrities or athletes. NASA astronauts are typically on a federal pay scale, and military astronauts are paid according to their active-duty rank and service benefits.
What it looks like
- NASA civilian astronauts: about 104,898104,898104,898 to 161,141161,141161,141 per year.
- Federal pay estimates: about 89,69389,69389,693 to 122,336122,336122,336 per year for some NASA astronaut pay calculations.
- Military astronauts: pay depends on rank, with benefits such as healthcare and pension.
Small detail that surprises people
Astronauts are usually paid a normal workweek salary even when they are in space, and one report noted NASA astronauts received a small extra amount of 555 per day during an extended mission.
If you want, I can also break this down by NASA vs SpaceX vs ESA , or show monthly pay.