NASA lists an approximate annual salary of $152,258 for astronaut candidates, based on 2024 pay schedules. That figure is a general reference rate—not a disclosure of what Suni Williams or Butch Wilmore individually earned, or what either was paid for the extended mission.
What salary figure does NASA publish?
NASA’s astronaut-candidate FAQ gives an approximate annual salary of $152,258, based on 2024 pay schedules, and says the amount would be adjusted for any 2025 increase. It is a published candidate pay reference, not a personal salary record for Williams or Wilmore.
Why there is no confirmed salary for Williams or Wilmore
The available public sources do not identify either astronaut’s salary grade, step, locality adjustment, or gross earnings for the extended stay. Federal pay depends on an employee’s applicable pay-setting details: the Office of Personnel Management explains that the General Schedule has 15 grades and 10 steps within each grade, and agencies classify and pay GS employees under statutory and OPM guidance. See OPM’s General Schedule overview.
Because their individual pay details are not established, NASA’s approximate annual candidate rate cannot be treated as either astronaut’s confirmed salary. Nor does the published annual reference establish how much either earned during the nine-month stay.
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What happened during the extended mission?
NASA’s Astronaut Fact Book records the Boeing Crew Flight Test launch on June 5, 2024, with Wilmore as commander and Williams as pilot. Williams returned with Crew-9 on March 18, 2025. The Associated Press reported that the flight was planned to be short but became a nine-month stay after Starliner returned to Earth without the astronauts; they came back aboard SpaceX.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How NASA candidates’ military status affects the pay question
NASA’s candidate FAQ says military astronaut candidates remain in active-duty status for pay and benefits. That is useful context about candidates who serve in the military, but it does not establish Williams’ or Wilmore’s individual compensation for this mission.
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