Who is Michela Benthaus? Meet the "first wheelchair using astronaut" who travelled space

Meet Michela Benthaus, who became first wheelchair user to cross the Kármán line in space. (Image: X/@blueorigin)

• Michaela Benthaus became first wheelchair user to fly in space on Dec 20, 2025
• Her Blue Origin flight advances accessibility in commercial space travel.
• Michela's achievement inspires inclusive design and global recognition.

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December 20th would be special for Michaela Benthaus. Why? Because she flew into space despite being on a wheelchair. This event lead towards a historic moment. Her flight proves that physical challenges cannot limit human ambition. It opens new doors for accessibility in commercial space missions.

The flight took place from West Texas. Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket carried her and five other crew members. She experienced weightlessness and safely returned to Earth, making global headlines. This mission marks a milestone in both science and social progress.

Who is Michaela Benthaus?

Michaela Benthaus is a German aerospace engineer and ESA astronaut. She suffered a spinal cord injury during a 2018 mountain biking accident. Since then, she has used a wheelchair in her daily life. Despite this, she trained to become a spaceflight-ready astronaut. Her expertise in mechatronics helped her prepare for spacecraft operations.

Michaela Benthaus made history as the first wheelchair-using astronaut aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard. (Image: X/@blueorigin)

What Happened on December 20, 2025?

Benthaus flew aboard Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin New Shepard NS‑37 rocket. The launch took place from West Texas, USA. The capsule crossed the Kármán line, reaching about 100 kilometres altitude. She experienced several minutes of weightlessness before safely returning to Earth. She became the first wheelchair-using person to fly in space.

How Did She Manage the Flight?

Michela moved independently from wheelchair into the spacecraft using a transfer board. Her legs were safely strapped to ensure stability during the flight. Blue Origin’s team provided customised accommodations for mobility and comfort. She handled all required pre-flight checks and emergency procedures confidently. This marked a breakthrough in accessibility for commercial space missions.

Michaela (Michi) Benthaus will become the first wheelchair user to cross the Kármán line. Her story, advocacy, and passion are evident in everything she does. pic.twitter.com/HusttrnUiQ

— Blue Origin (@blueorigin) December 20, 2025

Did She Become Popular Worldwide?

Michaela Benthaus became an instant global sensation after her flight. Her achievement is the "first-ever wheelchair user in space". Media outlets worldwide covered her historic journey extensively. NASA and ESA publicly congratulated her on social media platforms. She inspired millions, showing space is possible for everyone, regardless of mobility.

What Inspiration Michaela Brought for Science?

Researchers observed how inclusive training and adaptive technology can succeed in space. Her achievement encourages designing spacecraft for astronauts with diverse abilities. Space agencies like ESA and NASA are studying her mission carefully.

Michaela Benthaus’ flight inspires scientists and researchers worldwide. Her journey shows that physical challenges do not limit scientific contribution. Michela's historic flight motivates both engineers and young scientists to think creatively. Space travel is becoming more inclusive, safe and exciting for all.