A paraplegic engineer’s journey to space highlights both progress and remaining challenges in accessibility.
Story Highlights
- First wheelchair user crosses the Kármán line, marking a milestone in space accessibility.
- Blue Origin’s minor modifications demonstrate low-cost inclusion in space tourism.
- Spaceflight underscores potential for broader inclusion beyond traditional astronaut corps.
Breaking New Ground in Space Accessibility
Michaela “Michi” Benthaus, a German aerospace and mechatronics engineer, recently became the first wheelchair user to travel into space aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard NS-37 suborbital mission. The flight, launched from West Texas, reached a height of over 65 miles, crossing the Kármán line, a recognized boundary of space. This remarkable journey not only highlights a significant milestone in space tourism but also emphasizes the progress made towards inclusivity in space travel.
Despite being paraplegic due to a spinal cord injury from a mountain biking accident seven years ago, Benthaus’s determination and spirit remain unyielded. Her experience on the New Shepard, a suborbital rocket and crew capsule system operated by Blue Origin, serves as a symbol of hope and inspiration for many in the disabled community. The mission was facilitated with minor modifications, such as a transfer board and carpeted path, showcasing that accessibility in space is achievable with thoughtful design.
Industry and Accessibility: A New Frontier
Historically, government-run astronaut programs have maintained strict physical requirements, sidelining individuals with disabilities. Benthaus’s flight marks a departure from these exclusionary practices, demonstrating that commercial spaceflight can embrace diversity. Blue Origin’s efforts to accommodate Benthaus with minimal adjustments reflect a broader trend toward accessibility-by-design, which may encourage other commercial spaceflight companies to follow suit in making space accessible to all.
Retired SpaceX executive Hans Koenigsmann played a pivotal role in Benthaus’s journey, organizing and sponsoring her trip. His involvement underscores the importance of advocacy and support from within the industry for fostering inclusivity. As space tourism expands, the potential for high-net-worth or sponsored disabled passengers grows, signaling a shift in market dynamics and opportunities for commercial spaceflight providers.
Implications for the Future of Space Travel
Benthaus’s journey into space is more than a personal triumph; it signals potential long-term changes in the aerospace industry and beyond. The success of her mission may inspire regulatory bodies to establish guidelines for accessibility in space tourism. Moreover, it highlights the need for universal design principles within aerospace cabins and launch infrastructure.
For people with disabilities, Benthaus serves as a powerful role model, challenging stereotypes and proving that space is not an exclusive realm. Her mission may inspire others to pursue careers in STEM fields, promoting diversity and inclusion within the aerospace workforce. As the industry evolves, the inclusion of disabled individuals in space travel could become the norm rather than the exception.
Congratulations to my friend Michi Benthaus who just became the first wheelchair user to go to space! 🌌
If we can make space accessible, we can make any space accessible. #AstroAccess pic.twitter.com/4LrryOGBpb
— George Whitesides (@gtwhitesides) December 20, 2025
While Benthaus’s flight represents significant progress, it also highlights the continuing challenges in ensuring equal access to space. The aerospace industry, disability advocates, and policymakers must collaborate to create a future where space travel is accessible to all, regardless of physical abilities.
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Paraplegic engineer becomes the first wheelchair user to blast into space
She just became the first wheelchair user to travel to space
