Question about aviation pathways
I have a couple questions about aviation, aviation officers, available jobs, and spaceflight. Like almost every kid ever, I’ve been into space for as long as I can remember. Other career opportunities and reality have smacked me in the face a few times, but now I have what I’d like to think is a real shot at this pathway.
TLDR: In order to be an astronaut, am I on the right path to major in Aerospace Engineering and then branch aviation? What do I do after that?
I’m currently enlisted, PFC slotted to attend West Point with Prep class of ‘27 and (hopefully) USMA class of ‘31. From my research, there have been 21 astronauts from West Point, and most astronauts are military pilots with a background in engineering, especially aerospace engineering. If I do my best to stick to this pathway, where do I aim to be after graduation? I’m assuming branch aviation, but I haven’t looked into that much if at all. I may not even be medically qualified, with very very slight color blindness.
Does the Army have many fixed-wing aircraft? Does NASA care? Which duty stations will be most beneficial for my goals? Are astronauts usually recruited or do they apply on their own?
I have a lot to look into, but the most pressing concern is my area of study at USMA. Am I on the right path with aerospace engineering? I am interested in engineering (even aerospace type) anyway so even if the big dreams don’t work out, it is a degree I’ll use.
Oh uh I’ll get just fries and a monster