About 100,000 people have so far applied, and out of them, nearly 30,000 are from the United States. Indians number about 1,800. The applicants registered their names on Mars One website paying up $7 as fee.
Anyone above 18 years of age, and of sane mind can apply. The outfit wants people having 'psychological stability'.
Dogra told a newspaper: "This programme is proving to be extremely popular among Indians, I think because of the excellent space programme we have." She was referring to indian Space Research Organisation's Mars mission planned for October-November 2013. Guys in ISRO headquarters might be squirming in embarassment.
Mars One says, it intends to fund the endeavour by televising every aspect of the mission, from launch to landing to living on Mars.
"The final round will be over in 2014, when 20 to 40 candidates will be chosen and there is every possibility that Indians will make the grade," Dogra said.
Those selected will undergo eight years of intensive training at a Mars One facility before the final list of settlers is announced.
