For the first time in history, an astronaut with a physical disability has been approved for a future mission to the International Space Station.
The European Space Agency announced on Friday that British surgeon and former Paralympic sprinter John McFall has been medically cleared for long-duration space travel. McFall, who lost his leg in an accident at 19, called the news a proud moment.
McFall hopes his journey will change how people view individuals with disabilities. “This is way bigger than me – this is a cultural shift,” he said during an online press conference. Since his selection as an ESA astronaut in 2022, experts have been studying how someone with a prosthetic leg could work in space.
Though no launch date has been set, the next steps will focus on overcoming any challenges McFall may face in space. ESA officials say he is now like any other astronaut waiting for a mission assignment.
that is very weird and gross! 🤮
Crazy! 🤪🥴
wow that is very cool and quite interesting haha
the action of working with someone to produce something.
Wow I didn’t realise that there were so many different types of worms!
omg that is really bad. I hope she’s alright
(this is the craziest news i read):(
crazy!!!!!
crazy!!!!!
WOW, My friend is disgusted and I am very confused and sad for the lady!
GET WELL SOON
HOW?