The Economic Times

NASA once gave IQ just 1 point in its astronaut selection system because the agency believed even brilliant people could fail in space; Here's what actually helped candidates get selected

NASA's 1966 astronaut selection valued practical skills and character over intelligence. Engineering expertise and operational experience were crucial for complex space missions. Candidates needed calm decision-making and resilience for high-pressure situations. Motivation and teamwork were key selection criteria for demanding training. This philosophy proved vital during the successful Apollo 13 mission.