Astronaut, Mission Specialist Onboarding Checklist

Astronaut, Mission Specialist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Astronaut, Mission Specialist starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Science onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Astronaut, Mission Specialist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Astronaut, Mission Specialist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Astronaut, Mission Specialist Onboarding Checklist

1. Pre-employment medical evaluation: Before starting with the new company, the astronaut mission specialist undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure they are physically and mentally fit for space travel. This task is performed by the company’s medical team, including doctors and specialists in aerospace medicine.

2. Security clearance and background checks: As an astronaut, the mission specialist must undergo thorough security clearance and background checks to ensure they meet the necessary requirements and do not pose any security risks. This task is typically handled by the company’s security department or a designated security officer.

3. Orientation and company policies: The mission specialist attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s mission, values, and policies. They learn about safety protocols, emergency procedures, and other important guidelines. This task is usually conducted by the company’s human resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

4. Introduction to the team and key personnel: The mission specialist is introduced to their immediate team members, including fellow astronauts, engineers, and support staff. They also meet key personnel such as mission commanders, flight directors, and project managers who will play crucial roles in their missions. This task is typically organized by the astronaut office or the mission operations department.

5. Training on spacecraft systems and equipment: The mission specialist undergoes extensive training on the specific spacecraft systems and equipment they will be working with during their missions. This includes learning about the spacecraft’s propulsion, life support, communication, and navigation systems. The training is conducted by experienced engineers and technicians from the company’s aerospace engineering department.

6. Simulation and mission-specific training: The mission specialist participates in various simulations and mission-specific training exercises to prepare for the challenges they may encounter in space. This can involve simulated spacewalks, emergency scenarios, and mission simulations to ensure they are well-prepared for their assigned tasks. The training is typically overseen by the company’s astronaut training office and experienced astronauts.

7. Physical fitness and endurance training: Astronauts undergo rigorous physical fitness and endurance training to prepare their bodies for the physical demands of space travel. This includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and specialized exercises to improve balance and coordination. The training is conducted by the company’s fitness trainers and medical team.

8. Spacecraft familiarization and mock missions: The mission specialist spends time familiarizing themselves with the specific spacecraft they will be flying on. They learn about the layout, controls, and operation of the spacecraft through hands-on training and mock missions. This task is typically overseen by the company’s spacecraft operations department and experienced astronauts.

9. Emergency procedures and contingency planning: The mission specialist receives comprehensive training on emergency procedures and contingency planning to handle potential crises or malfunctions during space missions. They learn how to respond to various emergencies, such as fire, loss of communication, or medical emergencies. This training is conducted by the company’s safety and mission operations teams.

10. Mission-specific scientific training: Depending on the nature of the mission, the mission specialist may undergo specialized scientific training related to their assigned experiments or research objectives. This can involve learning about specific scientific instruments, data collection techniques, and experimental protocols. The training is typically provided by the company’s science and research department, along with external experts in the relevant scientific fields.

11. International collaboration and cultural sensitivity training: As space missions often involve international collaboration, the mission specialist receives training on cultural sensitivity and effective communication with astronauts and scientists from different countries. This training helps foster teamwork and collaboration during missions. It is usually organized by the company’s international relations department or a designated cultural liaison.

12. Psychological support and resilience training: Astronauts undergo psychological support and resilience training to cope with the unique challenges and stressors of space travel. This can include counseling sessions, stress management techniques, and strategies to maintain mental well-being during long-duration missions. The training is typically provided by the company’s mental health professionals and experienced astronauts.

13. Mission debriefing and lessons learned: After completing a mission, the mission specialist participates in a debriefing session to discuss the mission’s successes, challenges, and lessons learned. This helps improve future missions and provides valuable feedback for the company’s space program. The debriefing is typically facilitated by the company’s mission operations and astronaut office.

14. Continuing education and professional development: Throughout their career, the mission specialist engages in continuing education and professional development activities to stay updated with advancements in space science, technology, and mission operations. This can involve attending conferences, workshops, and specialized training programs. The company’s astronaut office and human resources department support and facilitate these activities.

15. Mentorship and guidance: The mission specialist receives mentorship and guidance from experienced astronauts and senior personnel within the company. This mentorship helps them navigate their career, provides valuable insights, and fosters professional growth. The mentorship program is typically coordinated by the astronaut office or a designated mentorship coordinator.

16. Public outreach and education: As ambassadors of space exploration, the mission specialist participates in public outreach and education initiatives to inspire and educate the public about space science and exploration. This can involve giving presentations, participating in public events, and engaging with students and educators. The company’s public affairs department or a designated outreach coordinator facilitates these activities

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Astronaut, Mission Specialist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Astronaut, Mission Specialist up to speed and working well in your Science team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.