NASA Ad For New Astronauts - 'Must Speak Russian'

Since we now rely on the Russians to get to the International Space Station it makes sense that new astronauts would need to speak and read their language; does not make this any less sad...

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2065999/Nasa-hiring-astronauts-applicants-know-RUSSIAN.html

"Nasa have posted new job openings for the first time since the final space shuttle launch – but recruits must pass a Russian language test.

The agency is calling for members of the armed forced – the traditional base of recruits – for astronauts to serve on the International Space Station.

But, since the U.S. no longer has a manned rocket programme, the only way to get there is aboard a aboard a Russian Soyuz capsule - meaning a knowledge of their language is essential."