The academies are indeed open to "just anyone," but grades aren't the only consideration. Members of Congress have processes for requesting the nomination lett

The academies are indeed open to "just anyone," but grades aren't the only consideration. Members of Congress have processes for requesting the nomination letters, and anyone can request one. There is strong competition for nominations. I've had a few friends who attended West Point and the Air Force Academy, and they were all "normal," middle-class high school students, but with great grades, athletic achievements, and evidence of leadership ability. Have any other examples of political influence in astronaut selection?