In Historic Move, Wheelchair User Goes To Space

For the first time ever, a wheelchair user has rocketed into space.

Michaela “Michi” Benthaus, an aerospace and mechatronics engineer at the European Space Agency who uses a wheelchair, traveled to space in late December.

Benthaus was one of six passengers on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket for the journey above the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space, days after its initial launch was scrubbed due to unspecified issues.

“It was the coolest experience ever, honestly,” Benthaus said after returning. “Let’s not stop here.”

Benthaus has used a wheelchair since a 2018 mountain biking accident left her with a spinal cord injury. At the time, she said that she believed her dream of going to space was no longer possible.

“I think you should never give up on your dreams,” Benthaus said after disembarking from the capsule. “I just got very lucky and I’m very grateful.”

No modifications were made for Benthaus on the New Shepard rocket, which is an autonomous vehicle that was designed with accessibility in mind, officials with Blue Origin said. The launch tower features an elevator and Benthaus used a transfer board to move from her wheelchair to her seat in the capsule. A mat was positioned outside the capsule to accommodate her wheelchair after the trip concluded.

“Michi’s flight is particularly meaningful, demonstrating that space is for everyone, and we are proud to help her achieve this dream,” said Phil Joyce, senior vice president of New Shepard at Blue Origin.

In addition to Benthaus, Blue Origin said that New Shepard has flown astronauts who are hard of hearing, have limited mobility or limb differences, have low vision or are legally blind.