ESA title

Fly! aims to make space missions accessible for all. For the first time, ESA is exploring whether an astronaut with a physical disability could embark on a long duration mission to the International Space Station. At the heart of the Fly! Project is John McFall, a former Paralympic athlete and orthopaedic surgeon who became a leg amputee after a motorcycle accident. John's expertise helps develop innovative solutions for people with physical disabilities facing space-related challenges, such as microgravity adaptation, fitness and technology integration. The programme demonstrates ESA’s commitment to increasing diversity and expanding its pool of astronaut talent. 

John McFall – the expert on Fly!  

John McFall, a former Paralympic athlete and orthopaedic surgeon, was selected in 2022, becoming the first person with physical disability to be a member of ESA's astronaut reserve. With the selection of John, ESA initiated the Feasibility Study phase of Fly!, specifically focusing on John's disability: lower limb amputation. As the expert of Fly!, John's expertise and feedback have been invaluable in helping the team examine and develop solutions for the unique challenges faced by individuals with physical disabilities in the context of space exploration.

Project launch: November 2022 

Expert: John McFall, UK 

Domains: medical, training, crew support, spacecraft, and ISS operations

Fly!

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Science & Exploration

Testing prosthesis fit in simulated microgravity

31/01/2025 405 views 4 likes
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John McFall cycling in a head-down position to explore whether fluid shifts altered the fit or comfort of John’s prosthesis during exercise.

This is Fly!

Science & Exploration

Fly! Project media briefing

14/02/2025 1849 views 37 likes
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