What if NASA offered higher salaries to astronauts with jet fighter experience?

Offering higher salaries to astronauts with jet fighter experience may attract more qualified candidates with these skills

Final answer: Offering higher salaries to astronauts with jet fighter experience may attract more qualified candidates with these skills, as these prepare them for the extremes of space travel. Yet, this could create salary disparity and undervalue other essential astronautical skills and experience.

Explanation:

If NASA were to revise their hiring strategy and offer higher salaries to astronauts with jet fighter experience, it might increase the number of qualified applicants with this specific type of experience. Jet fighter experience and the associated G-force training in simulators is highly valuable in the space industry as it prepares individuals for the extreme forces experienced during space travel. Furthermore, adapting to zero G (free fall or weightlessness), another specific aspect of astronaut training, could be an easier transition for those with jet fighter background.

However, this kind of strategy might create a salary disparity among astronauts, potentially leading to dissatisfaction among those without jet fighter experience. It's important to remember that there are many valuable skills and experience required in space exploration, not just those gained through jet fighter training. Higher salaries based purely on jet experience might overlook other important attributes and qualifications.

What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of offering higher salaries to astronauts with jet fighter experience?

Potential benefits include attracting more candidates with specific skills suited for space travel, while drawbacks may include creating salary disparity and undervaluing other valuable astronautical skills and experiences.