The astronaut application process is open to US citizens with a masters degree in a STEM field, or completion of a test pilot program, or an education in certain medical areas. They need to have two years of related experience after obtaining their Masters degree, or 1,000 hours of time in command of a jet aircraft.

An Astronaut Selection Board reviews all applications then invites a small group of applicants to the Johnson Space Center in Houston for interviews, then later invites a smaller group back for second interviews. The final candidates are then selected from this group.

During his two years of initial training, Douglas will be learning to fly a T-38 jet plane and learning basic astronaut skills like space walking and operating the International Space Station. Upon completion of initial training, he could be one of the first humans to return to the Moon, and possibly part of an effort to begin manned exploration of Mars.