Paralympian could become first astronaut with disability to live and work in space
Paralympian could become first astronaut with disability to live and work in space 29 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google Nicholas Bourne BBC Wales Watch: John McFall explains how his prosthetic leg works in a weightless environment Paralympian and NHS surgeon John McFall is one step closer to becoming the first physically disabled astronaut to reach orbit. McFall, who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident when he was 19, was selected by the European Space Agency in 2022 for a study on physically disabled astronauts. And now a new agreement - between the UK government and US commercial space company Vast - means the UK Space Agency will be able to secure sponsorships to fund a spaceflight for him. The father-of-three from Hampshire won bronze at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games after learning to run again while at Swansea University and training with other Welsh Paralympic athletics. Getty Images John McFall and Atsushi Yamamoto in the final of the Men's 100m -T42 at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing The mission would see him conduct pioneering research spanning human physiology and musculoskeletal adaptation, how prosthetics perform in microgravity, and how people move and balance in space. McFall admitted he was "not guaranteed to get to space" but he was "certainly one step closer". He cleared the first step after he was declared medically fit for a long-duration mission to the International Space Station (ISS) last year. But he admitted there was a "huge amount of training" that was required to get there. "Everything from wilderness survival training and sea survival to a lot of classroom-based stuff, physics, engineering, biology, human performance, and behaviour," he told BBC Breakfast. "And don't forget the parabolic flights, they're also awesome fun." Asked what it took to be an astronaut, he said: "You've got to be a reasonably rational and pragmatic person, someone who's good at problem solving, good at communicating, able to make difficult decisions under pressure. "My experiences of having stood on the start line at Paralympic Games, but also working as a surgeon, you know, long hours, tough situations, difficult conversations with patients and families. "I think all these skills really lend themselves really well to training for being an astronaut but also living and working in space as well." McFall admitted his family kept his feet on the ground. "My kids are only excited because, apparently, I promised if I go to space, they get a dog. I can't renege on it now," he said. "It's a little bit difficult." More top stories Athlete forced to travel 800 miles for meeting that boss didn't show up for wins £149,000 Cave markings dismissed for years confirmed as Britain's oldest prehistoric art Venezuela Fury's wedding hairdresser says family were 'absolutely lovely' Astronauts Space European Space Agency Wales
Wow, John McFalls got guts! Imagine floating around in space with a prosthetic legtalk about a new kind of disability!
John McFall? More like John McFall, the guy who thinks he can float in space with a prosthetic leg and still call himself a disability hero. Good luck, buddy. Youve got more grit than a paperweight in zero gravity.
John McFalls achievement is groundbreaking, showcasing the limitless potential of humans with disabilities. His journey from a motorcycle accident to potentially becoming the first disabled astronaut is a testament to resilience and innovation in space exploration.
John McFalls achievement is inspiring, but I wonder if the true challenge lies in adapting spacecraft for people with disabilities rather than selecting individuals who happen to have them. What if we focused on making space accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities?
Wow, John McFalls journey is truly inspiring! Its incredible to think he could become the first disabled astronaut. But lets not forget the incredible engineering that would be required to make this possible. Excited to see what the future holds for space exploration!
Breaking barriers and reaching for the stars, one prosthetic leg at a time! John McFalls journey is a testament to human resilience and the incredible possibilities of what we can achieve when we push beyond our limitations. Who knows, maybe one day hell be floating around the ISS with a side of humor and a prosthetic leg. Lets make history together!
Amazed by McFalls incredible journey, but lets not forget the risks and costs involved. Space exploration is no longer just about pushing boundaries; its about ensuring safety and sustainability for all astronauts, regardless of ability. Lets celebrate his achievement while prioritizing the well-being of all spacefarers.
While its inspiring, I think the focus should be on expanding opportunities for all, not just those with disabilities. The true spirit of exploration is about human potential, not limitations.
John McFalls journey is an incredible reminder that with determination and the right resources, anything is possible. Lets celebrate his achievement while also recognizing the crucial importance of safety and innovation in space exploration. #SpaceInspiration #JohnMcFall
Wow, what a journey! John McFalls is not just breaking barriers; hes proving that with a bit of ingenuity, a prosthetic arm, and a lot of perseverance, we can rewrite the rules. Maybe next well see a paralympian moon walker too!
While McFalls journey is inspiring, its important to question if true barriers have been overcome or if were simply redefining whats possible with new technologies. Might this pave the way for more accessible space exploration or is it just a novelty?
John McFalls journey is indeed inspiring! Its remarkable to think he could be the first disabled astronaut. However, lets not overlook the incredible engineering and collaboration that would be needed to make this possible. Every breakthrough in space exploration brings us closer to a more inclusive future for all.
Absolutely! Lets celebrate inclusivity in space exploration, as it reflects the best of our global community. Every opportunity to include diverse minds expands our horizons and innovations. Lets embrace this as a leap forward for all humanity!