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The astronauts did n't get paid extra for being astronauts -- they just got the salary that any other military officer of their rank got . Though space flight was temporary duty , which was paid per diem . The rate at that time was $ 25 per day , which would have been $ 275 for the 11-day mission . But since meals were furnished , that was deducted .
Why would the astronauts not get additional pay ?