The first stage of computer-based psychological testing finished at the end of August, consisting of tests that evaluated the cognitive capabilities of the candidates. The remaining candidates from across Europe have been invited to continue into the second stage of psychological testing.

Nearly 10,000 people originally registered as astronaut candidates through the ESA Web site. Subsequently 8,413 fulfilled initial application criteria and from those, 918 were chosen to take part in the first stage of psychological testing. The second stage of psychological testing consists of interviews, computer simulations, group exercises, roll playing and behavioral testing.

When that's completed, about 80 candidates will be invited to take part in an extensive medical evaluation early next year, the ESA said. Of the resulting 40 or so candidates, four will be invited to become members of the European Astronaut Corps and begin basic training at the European Astronaut Center in Cologne, Germany.