Who will go to Mars? Would I want to? Would you? I for one would go in a flash, but I will never get the chance. A history of depression or anxiety symptoms tend to make you miss out on even the first cut! And besides I will be pushing 70 by the earliest conceivable date we might start to settle Mars. In fact anyone who thinks that having $500,000 for a ticket, or coming out on top of a reality TV competition, or winning a lottery, or even having an essential skill, might guarantee a trip to Mars can think again. There will be some important background checks, mental and physical requirements and some fairly stringent testing needed first. Age will be a factor, and there will be minimum intelligence and skill barriers. Fitness and good health will be essential (a candidate will probably need to have her or his appendix removed as a precautionary measure). Family history of early cancer, or heart disease, or mental illness, may well exclude some potential colonists too. There will need to be some medical facilities on Mars but it will be no good tempting fate with an increased likelihood of major illness.
Beyond the obvious physical and mental issues, social compatibility and an equable temperament will be vital. Importing meanness of spirit, lack of social skills, moodiness, or inability to cope in emergencies to Mars would create unwanted tensions and risks in an enclosed and marginal environment. 'Hail to thee blithe spirit' should be the motto of the selectors. Upbeat, friendly, kind, courageous and adaptable human beings will be at a premium. Would you fit the bill? How many people do you know that might match up? The pool of those who may dream of going to Mars may be quite substantial. The proportion of those who will be fully suitable could be a lot, lot smaller!
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