Michaela Benthaus Makes History as First Wheelchair User in Space

Michaela Benthaus made history on Saturday as the first wheelchair user to travel to space, launching aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard NS-37 from West Texas. Benthaus, a 33-year-old German aerospace engineer with paraplegia, experienced a 10-minute flight that ascended over 65 miles above Earth, where she enjoyed a brief moment of weightlessness.

Following a spinal cord injury from a mountain biking accident in 2018, Benthaus had previously doubted the possibility of space travel for someone with her condition. The flight, which included five other passengers, was facilitated by Hans Koenigsmann, a former SpaceX executive who advocated for her inclusion.

Blue Origin made modifications to the New Shepard capsule to enhance accessibility, including a patient transfer board and an elevator to the launch pad. Benthaus expressed her excitement post-flight, stating, 'It was the coolest experience!' and emphasized the need for increased accessibility for people with disabilities both in space and on Earth.

The flight marked Blue Origin's 16th crewed mission, furthering the company's commitment to inclusivity in aerospace, a vision championed by billionaire Jeff Bezos, who founded the firm in 2000. According to CBS News, the cost of a seat on the New Shepard is believed to exceed $500,000, but details on how Benthaus's ticket was financed were not disclosed.

Benthaus hopes her journey will inspire others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and advocate for inclusivity in all sectors of society.