The Gallaudet Eleven

On March 31, 2026, Kerry O’Malley Cerra’s new book, The Gallaudet Eleven, was published. This remarkable story is based on the true story of eleven Deaf men who participated in NASA’s balance and motion studies during the 1950s and 1960s. 

Graduates of Gallaudet University, these participants were selected for the study due to the unique characteristics of their vestibular systems, which manage people’s sense of balance.

By participating in rigorous experiments—such as rotating chair trials designed to induce disorientation—the eleven Deaf participants provided essential data for space research.

The book encourages us to view deafness not as a deficit but as a characteristic that holds profound significance. Indeed, this book suggests that deafness is not something to be overcome, but a strength that has contributed to scientific advancement.

The author of the book, Cerra, also writes from her own lived experience with hearing loss. Through her work, she has consistently explored the themes of identity and representation. Ultimately, The Gallaudet Eleven shines a light on the contributions of the Deaf community.