Over half of the applicants are experts in biology, medical, and electrical engineering. Others are from fields including physics, material studies, chemistry, astronomy, and psychology.

Among them, 72 are males, and 48 are females. Fifty are from local universities, 22 from five government-backed research centers, and the Hong Kong Productivity Council.

Eight applicants are from the organizations at the Science Park and Cyberport. Twenty-eight are from various government departments, and 12 are from other research institutes and companies.

The second phase of the application will collect the personal information of applicants' families and conduct health examinations and psychological analysis in collaboration with the Hospital Authority.

For the first time ever, China is recruiting two payload specialists in Hong Kong for its manned space program. Eligible applicants must be aged between 30 to 45, have a master's degree, and have three years of experience in scientific innovation. They must also pass a physical fitness test.

Successful applicants will be granted allowances by the government and undergo training in the mainland.