A British Paralympian and surgeon may become the first person with a physical disability to reside in orbit. The UK government has signed an agreement with a US firm developing a compact commercial space station. John McFall, part of the European Space Agency astronaut reserve, received clearance for orbital activities last year and could join a mission to the Haven-1 station shortly after its planned 2027 launch. Vast, a California-based company, is building Haven-1, which is slightly smaller than a single-decker bus. The facility will accommodate up to four crew members and include a maple interior, an observation dome, and a microgravity laboratory. McFall described the prospect as an exciting opportunity during remarks from the ESA astronaut centre in Germany. The two-week mission will examine how the space environment influences his body and modern prosthetic devices that use sensors and processors. His work may lead to lighter and more flexible prosthetics for wider use among disabled individuals. It could also advance knowledge of osteoporosis and muscle loss while improving rehabilitation for amputees. McFall noted that the flight would challenge assumptions about suitable roles for people with disabilities. A UK Space Agency memorandum aims to help Vast obtain funding for the flight. Crew would reach Haven-1 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon on a Falcon 9. McFall could alternatively join a private Vast mission to the International Space Station next year. The 45-year-old from Hampshire lost his right leg in a motorcycle crash at age 19. He later competed in the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and qualified as an NHS orthopaedic surgeon. Selected in 2022 for an ESA project on disability-inclusive long-duration flights, McFall emphasised his focus on performing effectively rather than creating publicity. If successful, he would be the first British astronaut in space since Tim Peake’s 2015-16 mission.
