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First, we looked at how my disability and prosthesis would affect my ability to meet the requirements of flying. Later, we discussed it in detail and even figured out, for example, whether I should be forced to use prostheses in space, since I hardly use my legs in space.
All in all, I can say that although I will need prosthetics at some stage, a disability like mine is perfectly compatible with space travel. I am happy to say that we have not found any barriers that could prevent a person with a disability like mine from undertaking a long-term space mission. This has led to incredibly positive results.
Why is it important to enable people with disabilities to move in space? What specific disabilities are we talking about?
I’ll answer the second question first. Fly! looked at a specific group of disabilities, namely lower limb disabilities. From the results, I think we can infer different variants in this group that are compatible with long-duration space missions. We need to start with the basics, step by step, and I believe that starting with lower limb disabilities is a good place to start. I hope that we can soon focus on other disabilities, which allows me to answer the first part of the question: Why is it important?
ESA recognises that talent comes from a variety of histories and backgrounds – gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, physical ability. There are people around the world who can make valuable contributions to human space exploration. This, of course, includes becoming astronauts.
The experiences and knowledge of people with physical disabilities can bring new and valuable ideas, different ways of thinking, motivation and inspiration. For this to happen, everyone needs to be fairly represented in the workforce and have appropriate professional positions and roles. This is a goal, and ESA is working hard to achieve it.
In September, the Polaris Dawn mission is expected to take off from Cape Canaveral, and will feature the first spacewalk by non-astronauts. What do you think?
They are inspiring and equally important in the realm of human exploration of the universe because every time one of these missions comes to life, they help enrich our knowledge as a community. Polaris Dawn is conducting new science; it is testing new technologies. That’s why I have so much respect for private astronauts and their missions – they Make a significant contribution Promote the advancement of our space activities.
When will you go to space?
I would love to travel outside the atmosphere. I hope that the opportunity comes, but what I hope most is that sooner or later someone with a physical disability will be able to do it and be fully integrated into the activities of the International Space Station.
As for the time, I hope it will be by the end of this decade. As for me, if I have the chance to fly into space, it will be in 2027. But there is no news to confirm yet, so I can only pray for good luck.
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