ESA Certifies First Astronaut with Physical Disability for ISS Long-Duration Missions

The European Space Agency (ESA) has certified John McFall, an astronaut with a physical disability, for long-duration missions to the International Space Station (ISS). McFall, a reserve member of ESA's astronaut corps, lost his right leg at age 19 and uses a prosthesis. This certification marks a milestone in broadening access to space for individuals with disabilities. McFall's selection in 2022 was part of ESA's effort to assess the feasibility of including 'parastronauts' in space missions. A study, named 'Fly!', examined potential challenges related to McFall's health and the safety of ISS operations. The study covered over 80 topics, including training, ISS operations, medical issues, and crew support. While medically cleared, McFall has not yet been assigned to a specific ISS mission. ESA aims to fly all its full-time career astronauts on long-duration missions before the ISS is slated for retirement around 2030. McFall is also linked to a potential private astronaut mission under study by the U.K. Space Agency in collaboration with Axiom Space. The certification follows a feasibility study that addressed various technical and logistical concerns. Officials noted that overcoming preconceptions about the capabilities of individuals with physical disabilities was a significant aspect of the process.