BREAKING NEWS: Michaela Benthaus, a 33-year-old paraplegic engineer from Germany, has made history as the first wheelchair user to blast off into space today, July 15, 2023. The momentous launch occurred from West Texas aboard a Blue Origin rocket, marking a significant milestone in accessibility for space travel.
Benthaus, severely injured in a mountain bike accident seven years ago, embarked on this 10-minute flight with five other passengers, including former SpaceX executive Hans Koenigsmann. This groundbreaking mission was sponsored by Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, although ticket prices remain undisclosed.
The mission featured a customized New Shepard capsule designed for accessibility, enabling Benthaus to experience weightlessness for over three minutes. Blue Origin engineer Jake Mills stated that the capsule has been tailored to accommodate a wider range of individuals compared to traditional spaceflights.
To facilitate Benthaus’s journey, the team made essential adjustments, including a patient transfer board that allowed her to transition smoothly between the capsule hatch and her seat. A carpet was also laid on the desert floor for her immediate access to her wheelchair upon landing.
Benthaus expressed her disbelief at the opportunity, stating, “I never really thought that going on a spaceflight would be a real option for me… there is no history of people with disabilities flying to space.” Her journey not only fulfills her lifelong dream but also symbolizes a breakthrough for individuals with disabilities in aerospace.
Before today’s launch, Benthaus trained with Koenigsmann, who was designated as her emergency helper. She practiced using the elevator to reach the launch pad, overcoming numerous obstacles to realize this dream.
This mission is particularly significant as it highlights a shift towards inclusivity in space travel. Benthaus aims to inspire further advancements in accessibility, both in space and on Earth. “I hope I’m only the start,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for broader inclusion.
The flight today has raised Blue Origin’s total number of space travelers to 86, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding access to space.
As the world watches, Benthaus’s successful flight not only offers a glimpse of the future of inclusive space travel but also serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for change in societal perceptions of disability.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow the impact of this historic launch and what it means for the future of space exploration.