Michaela Benthaus, a 33-year-old paraplegic engineer from Germany, made history Saturday as the first wheelchair user to experience space travel during a Blue Origin rocket flight from West Texas. Benthaus, who was severely injured in a mountain bike accident seven years ago, joined five other passengers on the 10-minute journey that reached more than 65 miles above Earth. “It was the coolest experience,” Benthaus said after landing, adding she “laughed all the way up” and tried turning upside down in weightlessness. Blue Origin made minor adjustments including a patient transfer board and carpet for wheelchair access upon landing. “You should never give up on your dreams, right?” Benthaus urged afterward, expressing hope she’s “only the start” for disabled space travelers. (Story URL)
German Engineer Becomes First Wheelchair User To Reach Space On Blue Origin Flight
Dec 21, 2025 | 7:01 PM