First astronaut with a disability prepares for historic mission to space

Mission Overview - John McFall is the first astronaut with a disability declared mission ready for the International Space Station [1] - The European Space Agency sought an astronaut with a physical disability to pave the way for others [3] - John McFall could be assigned a mission early next year [8] Astronaut Training and Preparation - John McFall underwent intensive study and training on Earth, underwater, and in zero gravity for a year and a half [4] - He will likely use three prosthetic versions in space: for everyday tasks, exercise, and blastoff/landing [5][6] Personal Background - John McFall lost his right leg in a motorcycle accident at age 19 in Thailand [1] - He is a parolympic sprinter, winning a bronze medal in the 2008 Beijing Games, and qualified as an orthopedic surgeon [2] Space Station - The International Space Station is currently due to be decommissioned in 2030, but its lifespan could be extended [9]