In a simulation, CSA Astronaut Bob Thirsk learns to fly the Soyuz spacecraft. Thirsk is training as backup Soyuz Flight Engineer with the European Space Agency for the Soyuz mission on April 15, 2005.

In space it is critical that each astronaut be able to apply not only the knowledge and skills needed for a specific mission but also those that may be needed in the event of unforeseen circumstances. An astronaut is therefore required to possess a wide variety of technical qualifications and interpersonal skills, which are developed through a customized training program that continues throughout his or her career—even during missions.

NASA Astronauts Brent W. Jett Jr. (left), Daniel C. Burbank and CSA Astronaut Steve MacLean, attired in training versions of the shuttle launch and entry suit, observe fellow crewmembers during an emergency egress training session in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near Johnson Space Center. Image Credit: NASA

Astronauts must devote a large portion of their time to training. Once selected by the CSA, astronaut candidates undergo basic training, to earn the title of "astronaut". After completing further training, they are eligible for flight selection. Each crew is carefully chosen based on the specific needs of the flight and the availability of qualified astronauts. A typical training program for Canadian astronauts would include the following:

					Flight assignment
				NASA Mission Specialist Training		Mission Specific Training
CSA Basic training		CSA Advanced training
				ISS Advanced Training		Expedition Specific Training
				: Shuttle : International Space Station (ISS)
*Note: An astronaut can participate in both training curricula during his or her career.

Astronauts are expected to maintain their skills at all times. For example, Canadian astronauts on assignment at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) in Saint-Hubert, Quebec, are expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness, keep their Russian language skills up-to-date, and participate in Mobile Servicing System (MSS) activities. Astronauts may also maintain and further develop their skills by working in simulated space missions such as NEEMO - NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations.

CSA Astronaut Bob Thirsk and fellow NASA crewmember test technologies and procedures for planetary exploration during the NEEMO 7 mission, a simulated space mission that took place in an undersea laboratory off the Florida coast in October 2004.