SpaceX’s Rocket Failure Investigator Hans Koenigsmann Is Going to Space
▼ Summary
– Hans Koenigsmann was one of SpaceX’s earliest and longest-tenured employees, joining in 2002 to develop avionics for the Falcon 1 rocket.
– He worked at SpaceX for two decades, transitioning to lead mission assurance and safety while spearheading major failure investigations for the Falcon 9.
– Koenigsmann is a prominent German rocket scientist, known for his role in SpaceX’s first crewed flights and as a beloved leader within the company.
– He will fly on a future Blue Origin New Shepard suborbital flight with Michaela “Michi” Benthaus, who will become the first wheelchair user in space.
– The mission originated from Koenigsmann’s friendship with Benthaus, which began when he helped her secure donations for a parabolic flight and later invited her to a drone competition.
Hans Koenigsmann stands as one of the most respected and longest-serving figures in SpaceX’s history, having joined the company shortly after its founding. His journey from developing avionics for the Falcon 1 to overseeing mission safety and leading critical failure investigations has made him a cornerstone of the organization. After dedicating two decades to SpaceX, Koenigsmann departed in late 2021, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and technical excellence within the company’s high-pressure environment.
His expertise and visibility during SpaceX’s initial crewed missions have elevated him to become one of Germany’s most recognized rocket scientists. Now, he is preparing for a personal milestone: a suborbital journey aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft. Scheduled as early as next month, he will fly alongside his friend Michaela “Michi” Benthaus, an inspiring individual in her own right. Following a 2018 mountain biking accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury, Benthaus persevered toward her ambitions. She is set to make history as the first wheelchair user to travel to space.
In a recent discussion, Koenigsmann shared insights into how this extraordinary mission came together and reflected on collaborating with Blue Origin, a former rival. The conversation has been edited slightly for clarity.
When asked how the opportunity arose, Koenigsmann explained that several years ago, Benthaus reached out seeking assistance with fundraising for a parabolic flight. He directed her to OHB, which provided a modest contribution toward her travel expenses. Their paths crossed again at a drone competition in Munich, where Koenigsmann served as a juror. With the option to invite guests and knowing few people locally, he extended an invitation to Benthaus and one other acquaintance. As the drone displays failed to captivate them, their conversation naturally shifted toward more engaging topics, including the possibility of spaceflight.
(Source: Ars Technica)
