You might remember that I applied some time ago for joining the European Space programme: (here is the blog entry in case you missed it)
I just read in the paper that one of the volunteers is a German, so it was really close...
Final European crewmembers announced for human Mars mission simulation
After a selection process that started with some 5600 applicants, ( and I was one of them 
)the final four European candidates began training for the Mars mission simulation last month. From these four candidates, ESA has now selected the two who are assigned as prime crewmember and the two who will act as their backup, stepping in to replace a prime crewmember right up until the last moment if necessary.
Selected for the prime crew are Oliver Knickel, a mechanical engineer in the German army, and airline pilot Cyrille Fournier from France. Cedric Mabilotte and Arc'hanmael Gaillard, both from France, are assigned as backup crewmembers.
(...)
The purpose of the Mars500 study is to gather data, knowledge and experience to help prepare for a real mission to Mars one day. The participants will act as subjects in scientific investigations to assess the effect that isolation has on various psychological and physiological aspects, such as stress, hormone regulation and immunity, sleep quality, mood and the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMS3LBDNRF_Life_0.html
... oh, well, I am not in the army and I am not a mechanical engeneer, but other than that I think it could have been me... sigh
Oh well, I guess I have to stay in Brum for the moment and make the best of it...
