John McFall To Be The First Disabled Person On The ISS

In a new and spirit-lifting turn of events, John McFall, a former Cardiff Paralympic sprinter, is set to become the first disabled British astronaut aboard the International Space Station. The former sprinter got his medical certification to embark on a long-duration space mission a few days ago.

John McFall Heads To Space Despite His Disabilities

A few days ago, John McFall broke the internet as he made the first significant step in becoming the first disabled person to head to the International Space Station. This is a remarkable achievement for not only the former Cardiff Paralympic sprinter but also the world at large.

In a statement with Sky News, McFall pointed out that he has completed the first stage in this entire process. In his words, “It’s great to have completed the feasibility study and demonstrated there is no technical showstopper for me flying to the International Space Station.”

Regarding the achievement that he is set to make, McFall adds that the “announcement is not just about me getting medically certified to fly long-duration missions.” This achievement might also help change how the world looks at people with disabilities.

After about two years of testing under the ESA Fly! feasibility study McFall has finally been cleared to join a space mission. McFall says that this move whilst being in the space industry shows that there are more opportunities than we might imagine for people with disabilities.

Opening More Opportunities In Space For People With Disabilities

Launched in 2022 the ESA Fly! feasibility study aimed to discover ways to get people with disabilities to the International Space Station. John McFall joined this program as a member of the ESA Astronaut Reserve.

Now, three years after joining the ESA Fly! feasibility study, McFall is ready to head to the International Space Station on a long-term mission. At this time, we do not know the mission McFall will be sent on or when he’ll be heading to space.

However, this is groundbreaking for people with disabilities who are looking to actively work in space. Just like McFall these now have the hope to fulfil their dream of working in space as an astronaut.

Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA’s director of human and robotic exploration, points out that “inclusiveness is the value of Europe.” So physical limitations shouldn’t be a hindrance to the achievement of goals such as working in space.