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EnglishWhat Is the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation?
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The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) is a nonprofit created by the Mercury 7 astronauts to support top U.S. college students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while preserving the legacy of America's pioneering astronauts. Its work centers on three things: scholarships for outstanding STEM scholars, awards that recognize achievement, and programs that connect space enthusiasts and mentors to that mission. It is most relevant to high-achieving STEM undergraduates, people who want to mentor or support scholars, and space enthusiasts looking for a membership community.
Mission and Legacy
The Foundation states its mission as aiding the United States in retaining world leadership in technology and innovation by supporting the best and brightest scholars in STEM, while commemorating the legacy of America's pioneering astronauts. That dual purpose—present-day investment in students plus historical remembrance—shapes nearly everything on the site, from scholar profiles to donor recognition.
The "Created By The Mercury 7 Astronauts" framing is not just branding. It explains why the organization's public identity is tied to named astronauts and historic milestones, and why donors and partners are often recognized alongside that legacy.
Main Activities
Scholarships and Awards
The core program is the Astronaut Scholar designation, awarded to outstanding STEM students. The site highlights individual scholars by name, school, and year—for example, a 2005 and 2006 Georgia Institute of Technology Astronaut Scholar—and publishes a full class of recipients each year (the 2026 Astronaut Scholar Class is featured with a press release).
Recognition extends beyond the scholarship itself. The Neil Armstrong™ Award of Excellence is presented at the Innovators Gala; the site notes that Jarret Lafleur was named the 2026 recipient.
Mentorship
The Foundation runs a mentorship program framed as "Building Friendship, Guidance, Support," inviting professionals to "ignite tomorrow's leaders" by becoming a mentor. This is a way for people outside academia to contribute time rather than money.
Membership: Space Explorers Club
For space enthusiasts, the 2026–2027 Space Explorers Club offers monthly virtual aerospace talks with an astronaut or industry leader, alongside fellow members. The site lists "Learn More" and "Register" as the entry points. Note that the page uses "subscribe" language in connection with membership; pricing and any login requirements are not stated in the available material, so check the registration page directly before assuming cost or access terms.
Scale and Support
The Foundation describes a 40+ year history. A recent marker of its fundraising profile: NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman made a $500,000 personal commitment—described as the largest one-time individual gift in the organization's history—framed as "a historic investment in the next generation."
Who It's For
| If you are… | The relevant part of ASF |
|---|---|
| A high-achieving U.S. STEM undergraduate | Astronaut Scholar program (selection is typically through your institution; confirm eligibility and nomination process with your school) |
| A professional wanting to give time | Mentor program |
| A space enthusiast | Space Explorers Club membership |
| A donor or partner | Named giving and gala recognition tied to the astronaut legacy |
How to Get Involved
- Students: Start with your university's scholarship or fellowships office to ask whether your school participates in the Astronaut Scholar selection process. The Foundation's site profiles scholars by institution, which is a useful signal of participating campuses.
- Mentors: Use the "Become a Mentor" link on the homepage and review the program description before applying.
- Enthusiasts: Open the Space Explorers Club page, read the 2026–2027 program details, and register if the monthly virtual talks fit your interests.
- Verification: Because program dates, class years, and membership terms change annually, confirm current details on the specific program page rather than relying on summaries.
The clearest way to understand the Foundation is to read a few scholar profiles and the current class announcement—they show concretely what the organization funds and who it selects.