German Engineer Makes History as First Wheelchair User in Space
Michaela Benthaus, a German engineer, has made history by becoming the world’s first wheelchair user to travel to space. Her remarkable journey aboard a Blue Origin rocket marks a significant milestone in accessibility within the realm of space exploration.
Why It Matters
This event underscores the increasing awareness and efforts toward inclusivity in the aerospace sector. Benthaus’s achievement not only fulfills her personal dream but also sends a powerful message that space exploration is attainable for individuals with disabilities, challenging the traditional narrative that has often excluded them from such aspirations.
Key Developments
- Benthaus, who sustained a spinal cord injury in a mountain biking accident seven years ago, reached out to retired SpaceX engineer Hans Koenigsmann for guidance on becoming an astronaut.
- Her flight on Blue Origin’s New Shepard included equipment modifications to facilitate her entry and exit from the capsule.
- Ms. Benthaus emphasized the challenges faced by people with disabilities, highlighting the inaccessibility of many aspects of the world.
- The mission took place on a Saturday from a launch pad in Texas and lasted for about 10 minutes, reaching above the Kármán line, the recognized boundary of space.
- Phil Joyce, a senior vice-president at Blue Origin, noted the significance of Benthaus’s flight in promoting the message that “space is for everyone.”
Full Report
A Historic Flight
The groundbreaking flight occurred on a Saturday, with Benthaus joining five other participants in the brief journey beyond the Kármán line, which defines the edge of space. After completing the flight, Benthaus expressed her exhilaration, stating, “It was the coolest experience!” She elaborated on her enjoyment of both the views and the sensation of microgravity during the ascent.
Challenges and Preparations
Following her spinal cord injury, Benthaus dedicated herself to overcoming the obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities. Reflecting on her experiences, she remarked about the ongoing inaccessibility of the world for people like herself. To assist her during the flight, Koenigsmann, who she first connected with online, was seated nearby to provide support if necessary.
Words of Inspiration
Koenigsmann shared that Benthaus’s determination inspired him to facilitate her journey into space. He noted, “It’s her drive that kind of convinced me I should do that too, and to just experience something that I’ve seen from the outside for a long time.”
Blue Origin’s Commitment
Blue Origin has been increasingly recognized for its efforts to make space travel accessible to a broader audience. As the company marks this achievement, they continue to focus on enhancing inclusive experiences in the aerospace industry, with Benthaus’s flight serving as a significant example of progress. The specific cost of the mission has not been publicly disclosed, although it represents the 16th suborbital tourist flight conducted by the company.
Context & Previous Events
Benthaus’s flight follows a trend of high-profile space tourism missions by Blue Origin, with previous flights including notable figures such as pop star Katy Perry and CBS presenter Gayle King. These flights highlight the competitive dynamics among private space companies vying for dominance in the burgeoning field of space tourism.
