First Parastronaut Cleared for Historic Space Station Mission – A Game-Changing Milestone for Inclusion

First Parastronaut Cleared for Historic Space Station Mission – A Game-Changing Milestone for Inclusion

John McFall's journey from Paralympian to Europe's first-ever astronaut with a physical disability is truly inspirational. His medical clearance for a long-duration mission on the International Space Station (ISS) marks a significant step towards inclusive diversity in space exploration.

With his background as a surgeon and former athlete, McFall brings a unique perspective to space travel. Despite losing a leg in a motorbike accident at 19, he has never given up on his dreams of reaching for the stars.

Since announcing McFall as a member of its astronaut reserve in 2022, the European Space Agency (ESA) has been assessing the feasibility of someone with a prosthesis becoming a crew member on a space mission. The ESA's announcement comes at a time when diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have come under attack from the new US administration of Donald Trump.

The next phase of the feasibility study will look at some of the hardware needed, including prosthetics, so that McFall can best overcome any additional challenges in space. McFall said that technologies they are working on are going to trickle down and have benefits for prosthetic users in wider society as well.

This is a game-changing moment for inclusivity not only in space exploration but also in broader society. It's a reminder that no one should be denied access to opportunities based on their disabilities or background. We must continue to work towards creating a world where everyone has an equal chance to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness.

Let us celebrate McFall's accomplishment, embrace diversity, and continue working towards a future that is inclusive and accessible for all.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.