Blast Off into Fun: 10 Best Astronaut Training Games for Aspiring Space Explorers
Space exploration has fascinated humanity for centuries, sparking curiosity about the unknown and the possibilities that lie beyond our planet. Today, space agencies and private companies are getting closer to making space travel a reality for not just astronauts, but for civilians as well. If you’ve ever dreamed of floating in zero gravity, piloting a spacecraft, or experiencing the thrill of a space mission, there’s no better way to get a taste of what it’s like than through astronaut training games.
These games combine education with excitement, offering aspiring space explorers a chance to step into the shoes of a NASA astronaut or intergalactic pioneer. Whether you’re an aspiring astronaut, space enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to pass the time, here are 10 of the best astronaut training games that will have you ready for lift-off.
1. Kerbal Space Program
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great: “Kerbal Space Program” is one of the most beloved space simulation games that puts you in charge of your own space program. Players design, build, and launch rockets to explore the far reaches of space, all while learning about physics, orbital mechanics, and spacecraft engineering. The game has a steep learning curve but offers an incredibly rewarding experience, making it perfect for aspiring astronauts who want to understand the intricacies of space travel and mission planning.
2. Space Shuttle Mission 2007
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great: For those who want to simulate the experience of piloting a real Space Shuttle, “Space Shuttle Mission 2007” is an incredibly realistic training simulator. The game allows you to experience authentic shuttle missions, including launch, space travel, and landing. It also includes various space science experiments, teaching players about the real-world tasks astronauts perform on their missions.
3. Astronaut: Moon, Mars & Beyond
Platform: VR (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
Why It’s Great: This immersive VR game takes players on a journey through outer space, allowing them to train as astronauts preparing for a mission to the Moon or Mars. Players get to experience tasks like performing spacewalks, docking spacecraft, and managing systems onboard the space station. The game’s realism and use of virtual reality make it a fantastic option for those who want to feel what it’s like to be an astronaut in an incredibly immersive environment.
4. No Man’s Sky
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great: “No Man’s Sky” is an open-world space exploration game where players can explore an infinite, procedurally generated universe. While it’s not a traditional astronaut training game, it gives players the chance to pilot spacecraft, land on planets, and gather resources—all key skills for aspiring space explorers. The game encourages curiosity and exploration, making it perfect for those who dream of space travel.
5. Mission: ISS
Platform: VR (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
Why It’s Great: “Mission: ISS” is a VR game that simulates life aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Players experience the day-to-day tasks of an astronaut, from conducting experiments to performing spacewalks outside the station. The game is designed in collaboration with NASA, offering an authentic and educational experience that mirrors real-world astronaut training and operations aboard the ISS.
6. Orbiter 2010
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great: “Orbiter 2010” is a free space simulator that gives players a highly detailed and realistic experience of space travel. With accurate representations of various spacecraft and celestial bodies, players can simulate everything from launching to rendezvousing with the International Space Station to flying to distant planets. It’s a game that challenges players’ understanding of space physics and orbital mechanics while allowing them to customize missions and create their own space missions.
7. Elite Dangerous
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great: “Elite Dangerous” is an expansive space exploration game that lets players pilot their own spacecraft, trade, explore planets, and engage in combat—all in a vast, open-world universe. The game’s emphasis on exploration and resource management offers aspiring astronauts a chance to experience a virtual version of life in deep space, with everything from navigating star systems to interacting with other space travelers.
8. Space Engineers
Platform: PC, Xbox
Why It’s Great: “Space Engineers” is a sandbox game that allows players to design, build, and maintain spacecraft and space stations. Players can use their creativity to construct anything from small ships to massive space stations. The game focuses on engineering, physics, and problem-solving—key aspects of astronaut training—while offering a fun and interactive way to learn about the practical side of space exploration.
9. Surviving Mars
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great: “Surviving Mars” is a strategy game where players are tasked with establishing a human colony on Mars. The game challenges players to manage resources, design habitats, and ensure the survival of their colonists in the harsh Martian environment. The game teaches players about the logistics and complexities of living on another planet, offering insight into the challenges astronauts and engineers will face during future Mars missions.
10. Spacewalk VR
Platform: VR (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
Why It’s Great: As the name suggests, “Spacewalk VR” allows players to experience the thrill of floating in space during a spacewalk. This VR experience lets players step outside the spacecraft and work on repairs or installations on the exterior of a space station. It’s an exhilarating and educational game that provides a real sense of the challenges astronauts face when performing extravehicular activities (EVAs) in space.
Conclusion
Whether you want to design your own rockets, walk in space, or manage a Martian colony, these astronaut training games provide a perfect blend of education and fun for anyone aspiring to be an astronaut or space enthusiast. They offer a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos from the comfort of your home, all while learning about the science, engineering, and teamwork that go into successful space missions. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a space explorer, these games are your first step toward liftoff. Time to suit up and start your training!