The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
Go to topicMaking space exploration accessible
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, 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