This week that number was whittled down to just over 1,000, but there's still a long way to go.
The project aims to send 40 "average Joes" to colonize the red planet beginning in 2024.
Among those who made the cut, almost 300 Americans including an 81-year-old who would be over 90 at the time of the launch.
The candidates will undergo physical and emotional testing in the next selection phase.
